The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare -- Act 2, Scene 3 -- Summary and Analysis

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Summary

Jessica and Lancelot are in a room in Shylock's house. Jessica, Shylock's daughter, bids Lancelot goodbye. She gives Lancelot a letter to give to Lorenzo, whom she hopes to marry after she converts to Christianity.


Main events

  • Jessica and Lancelot part
  • Jessica gives Lancelot a letter for Lorenzo


Participating Characters

  • Jessica
  • Lancelot


Response/ discussion

JESSICA

But though I am a daughter to his blood,
I am not to his manners


Shylock's not a bad guy, just badly mannered

JESSICA

O Lorenzo,
If thou keep promise, I shall end this strife,
Become a Christian and thy loving wife.


Fans of Bad Shylock would say Jess is a good character and she embodies the good that is becoming a Christian. Fans of Good Shylock would say she's a bad daughter turned rogue from Judaism


Table of Contents: The Merchant of Venice -- Summary and Analysis


The Merchant of Venice. Image source

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