The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare -- Act 3, Scene 5 -- Summary and Analysis
Summary Lancelot tells Jessica that as children are punished for the sins of their children, her one hope is to be her father's bastard. Jessica points out that if this indeed is the case then she will be punished for her mother's adultery, so she is doomed either way. She says she will be saved by her husband who has made her a Christian. Lancelot is cheeky to Lorenzo and frustrates him. Lorenzo asks Jessica how she likes Portia. Jessica replies that a lot. Lorenzo fishes for compliments a little and they go to dinner. Main events Lancelot and Jessica conclude that Jessica is doomed to be punished for her parents' sins Jessica says she will be saved by marrying Lorenzo Participating Characters Lancelot Jessica Lorenzo Analysis and Discussion Faulty logical connector in the sentence LAUNCELOT Yes, truly; for, look you, the sins of the father are to be laid upon the children: therefore, I promise ye, I fear you. I was always plain with you, and so now I speak my agitation of...