The Merchant of Venice

1. What kind of Play is The Merchant of Venice?

Ans: The Merchant of Venice is a romantic comedy.

2. Who was William Shakespeare?

Ans: William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist.

3. Why is Shakespeare called 'The Sweet Swan of Avon'?

Ans: Shakespeare, born in Stratford-upon-Avon, is called 'The Sweet Swan of Avon’ by Ben Jonson because of his immortal creation in literature.

4. What is Venice?

Ans: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region.

5. Who is the merchant of Venice?

Ans: Antonio is the merchant of Venice.

6. Who is Antonio?

Ans: Antonio is the manager of the Duchess’ household and the person whom she secretly married.

7. Who is Bassanio? ? [NU 2017]

Ans: Bassanio is a gentleman of Venice. He is a kinsman and dear friend to Antonio.

8. Who is Jessica?

Ans: Jessica is Shylock's daughter who falls in love with Antonio's friend Lorenzo and becomes a Christian.

9. Who is Nerissa?

Ans: Nerissa is Portia’s servant and a close friend.

10. Who is Gratiano?

Ans: Gratiano, a coarse and garrulous young man, is Bassanio’s friend who accompanies him to Belmont.

11. Who is Launcelot Gabbo?

Ans: Launcelot Gabbo is a clownish servant who leaves Shylock in order to work for Bassanio.

12. Who is Salerio?

Ans: Salerio is a Venetian nobleman, friendly with Antonio, Bassanio, Gratiano, and Lorenzo.

13. Who is Solanio?

Ans: Solanio is a Venetian nobleman and good friend of Salerio.

14. Who is Lorenzo?

Ans: Lorenzo is a friend of Antonio and Bassanio. He woos and wins the love of Shylock's daughter, Jessica.

15. Who is Portia? [NU 2017]

Ans: Portia is the heroine of William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice. She is one of the strongest and wisest characters found in William Shakespeare's plays.