How is the plot introduced? or what is the exposition? (The Merchant of Venice, p. 148.)
As there are two main stories, so there are two climaxes. What are they? Which of these we regard as the climax of the play will depend on which story we consider the more important in the development of the plot.
How does the Launcelot-Gobbo episode help to bring out the character of Bassanio? of Shylock? Do you think it serves any other purpose?
How does the Lorenzo-Jessica story help to weave together the two main stories? to arouse us against Shylock? to make us sympathize with him? Does it serve to bring out any other characters?
How does the rings episode aid in interweaving the two main plots? in developing main characters?
Why did not Shakespeare end the play with Act IV?
What is the purpose of Act V?
Characters.—In making Shylock the cruel man that the story requires, Shakespeare was in danger of making him too inhuman to be of interest to an audience. Show in detail how he avoided this danger.
What kind of master was Shylock? What kind of father? What good traits had he?