The themes of betrayal, marriage and false appearances all feature in this scene through the elopement of Jessica and Lorenzo. Jessica has betrayed her father and her religion by eloping with Lorenzo. Not only that, but she has stolen his precious gold and jewels. Jessica’s disguise relates to the theme of false appearances – things not being what they seem.
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The theme of marriage is seen through Jessica’s elopement with Lorenzo. This is a union that will not be supported by her father. Jessica, by ‘gilding’ herself with coins and jewels and being the daughter of a rich Jew, is certainly an attractive prospective (potential/possible) wife, much like the wealthy Portia in Belmont. In this way, the themes of marriage and money are also interlinked (connected) in this scene.
A. REVIEWING
1. What reason does Lorenzo give for being late? 2. What joke does he make to his friends by way of an apology? 3. What does Jessica throw down to Lorenzo? 4. Why is Jessica embarrassed and ashamed in this scene? 5. What news does Antonio bring Gratiano at the end of the scene?
