Merchant of Venice – Act 3 Scene 2 (lines 142-152) Notes

6. A gentle scroll - Fair Lady, by your leave;

.............  ................... …………….

Until confirme'd, sign'd ratified by you.

1) Where was the gentle scroll? Give the summary of what was written on the scroll.

The gentle scroll was in the lead casket. On the scroll it was written that since he has not chosen by mere out ward appearances, he may be fortunate and make his choice as wisely as he has done. Since this fortune has come to him, he should be satisfied and seek nothing more for his happiness. If he is pleased with his luck and feels that fate has brought him happiness, he should go to his beloved and claim her as his own with a loving kiss.

2) What prize had the speaker won? Give the reasons which led to the winning of the prize.

The speaker has won Portia. The speaker chose the correct casket, i.e., lead casket containing Portia's portrait. It’s simple looks impressed Bassanio more than the protestations of gold and silver. Besides the inscription on the casket stated that the man who chooses it, must give and hazard his whole being which means his true love.

3) What was the speaker asked to give and to receive?

The speaker was asked to go to the lady and claim her as his own with a loving kiss and receive a kiss from her.

4) Give the meaning of:

a) Universal shout:    loud applause of joy. This refers to the clamour of the crowd at Bassanio's choice of the right casket

b) Giddy in spirit:  Over whelmed with joy. This refers of the bewildered state of mind of Bassanio after his choice of the lead casket.

5) To whom does the speaker compare himself? In what way does he compare himself?

The speaker compares himself to the one who is striving to win some contest, like one of two prize- fighters. He compares himself as someone who wins a prize in the contest.

6) Why is the speaker doubtful whether what he sees is true?

Bassanio is at the height of his joy after choosing the correct casket. He hears a loud applause from the people standing there. He is so bewildered by the outcome of making the correct choice, that he is not sure if the applause is for him or not. He asks Portia to confirm it and sanction it by returning his kiss.