Unlocking Wisdom: 10 Profound Quotes from 'The Merchant of Venice' by Shakespeare::ELET
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Unlocking Wisdom: 10 Profound Quotes from 'The Merchant of Venice' by Shakespeare

by Banana Flower 2023. 10. 5.
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Quote 1: "All that glitters is not gold."

Meaning: This quote warns against judging things solely by their outward appearance. It suggests that what may appear valuable or attractive on the surface may not hold true value.

Explanation: This famous line is spoken by the Prince of Morocco in Act 2, Scene 7, as he contemplates the caskets in Portia's test of her suitors. It reminds us not to be deceived by appearances.

Lesson: We should look beyond superficial beauty and material wealth to discover true value in people and things.

 

Quote 2: "The quality of mercy is not strained."

Meaning: Portia speaks these words in Act 4, Scene 1, emphasizing that mercy should flow freely and naturally, not forced or constrained.

Explanation: Portia's speech on mercy highlights the idea that showing compassion and forgiveness should come from a genuine and willing heart.

Lesson: We should practice mercy and kindness willingly, without being compelled to do so.

 

Quote 3: "If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you tickle us, do we not laugh?"

Meaning: Shylock, in Act 3, Scene 1, points out the common humanity shared by Jews and Christians, highlighting that they share the same emotions and experiences.

Explanation: Shylock's speech challenges the dehumanization and discrimination he faces as a Jewish moneylender in Venice. It calls for empathy and recognition of our shared humanity.

Lesson: We should treat all individuals with empathy and fairness, recognizing our shared human experiences.

 

Quote 4: "The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, stratagems, and spoils."

Meaning: Lorenzo expresses the idea that a person who cannot appreciate music and harmony is susceptible to darker deeds.

Explanation: Lorenzo's words underscore the importance of art, music, and beauty in our lives as sources of inspiration and moral guidance.

Lesson: We should embrace the beauty of the arts and culture to nurture our souls and foster a sense of goodness.

 

Quote 5: "So do I too, if it be not too much. Bring me the letter; I will see it."

Meaning: Portia responds to Bassanio's request to read a letter. Her willingness to assist him demonstrates her love and devotion.

Explanation: This quote, from Act 4, Scene 1, showcases Portia's cleverness and her deep affection for Bassanio.

Lesson: Love and devotion often involve going the extra mile to help and support our loved ones.

 

Quote 6: "Bassanio, your most noble kinsman, / Gratiano, and Lorenzo are dead, / My lord Bassanio and my gentle lady, / I am dumb."

Meaning: Portia delivers this news to Bassanio in Act 4, Scene 2, as a test of his love and loyalty.

Explanation: Portia's feigned news of Bassanio's friends' deaths is a critical moment in the play. It tests Bassanio's loyalty and demonstrates Portia's intelligence and resourcefulness.

Lesson: True love involves trust and understanding, even in challenging circumstances.

 

Quote 7: "I am locked in one of them: / If you do love me, you will find me out."

Meaning: Portia writes these words to Bassanio in Act 3, Scene 2, revealing her identity and her love for him.

Explanation: Portia's cleverly devised riddle is a pivotal moment in the play, where she reveals her true self to Bassanio, furthering the theme of love and loyalty.

Lesson: Love can be a puzzle, but when it's genuine, it can withstand tests and challenges.

 

Quote 8: "The world is still deceived with ornament."

Meaning: Bassanio speaks this line in Act 3, Scene 2, expressing his understanding that outward appearances can be deceiving.

Explanation: Bassanio's realization underscores the theme of deception and appearances in the play, especially in the context of the casket test.

Lesson: We should be cautious about being swayed by external appearances and focus on true character.

 

Quote 9: "If you repay me not on such a day, / In such a place, such sum or sums as are / Express'd in the condition, let the forfeit / Be nominated for an equal pound / Of your fair flesh, to be cut off and taken / In what part of your body pleaseth me."

Meaning: Shylock outlines the terms of his bond with Antonio in Act 1, Scene 3, specifying that if Antonio cannot repay the debt, Shylock is entitled to a pound of Antonio's flesh.

Explanation: This quote sets the stage for the central conflict of the play, the bond between Antonio and Shylock, and foreshadows the intense legal and moral dilemmas that follow.

Lesson: The pursuit of vengeance can lead to grave consequences, and contracts of cruelty should be avoided.

 

Quote 10: "The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose."

Meaning: Antonio says this in Act 1, Scene 3, suggesting that even those with malicious intentions can manipulate religious texts for their own ends.

Explanation: This quote highlights the theme of hypocrisy and manipulation in the play, as characters use religious and moral justifications to further their agendas.

Lesson: We should be discerning and not blindly follow those who misuse religious or moral arguments for their own gain.

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