Three Powerful Caskets

Act Two, Scene One

1. This scene opens with the words ‘Mislike me not for my complexion’ Why does the Prince think Portia will have a problem with his complexion?
2. In Act 1 if  Antonio loses his gamble, he must forfeit a pound of flesh. What must Portia’s suitors give up if they fail to win her? A2S1 Line 37-42
3. Portia tells the Prince of Morocco- ‘Yourself, renowned prince, then stood as fair as any comer I have looked on yet for my affection’ What does this mean? (if you’re unsure check sparknotes translation)
4. Shylock practices ‘usury’. Explain this in your own words? 
5. Why do Shylock and Antonio hate each other?

1. Because at this point in time white people where very racist and Portia white and he has dark skin.
2. If the princes decide to take the challenge to win Portia's heart and do not succeed they cannot marry another woman ever.
3.  She doesn't care about the colour of his skin and he has a much of a chance to marry him as every other suitor.
4. Usury is when you lend out money and get interest on the money you lent back.
5. Shylock and Antonio hate each other because they practice different religions, which means they have different values, and Antonio has not been very polite to Shylock. 

Incision: When you make a sharp cut in something or someone.
Renowned: Someone is good at something and well known of it.
Casket: A small box that houses valuables.
Fiend: A person who is wicked or cruel. Also a person interested in something or enjoys doing.
Impertinent: Being rude or unrespectful/person.
Tedious: If something is tedious it is boring or frustrating.
Prodigal: When someone does lots of bad things then goes away and comes back a better person.
Garnish: Salad or herbs used to decorate cooked or prepared food.