# Scene II explained — The Merchant of Venice

> Chapter companion for The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Launcelot Gobbo debates leaving his master Shylock, encounters his blind father Old Gobbo, and tricks him before revealing his identity. He then secures a position with Bassanio. Bassanio prepares for a feast and agrees to let Gratiano accompany him to Belmont, warning him to moderate his behavior.

## Themes in this chapter

### Prejudice and Anti-Semitism

Launcelot refers to Shylock as 'a kind of devil' and 'the very devil incarnal,' reflecting contemporary anti-Semitic stereotypes.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Launcelot pretends to be a stranger to his own father, and Gratiano promises to adopt a sober appearance to please Bassanio.

## Character check-ins

### Launcelot Gobbo

Debates leaving Shylock, tricks his blind father, and secures a new position with Bassanio.

### Old Gobbo

Launcelot's blind father, who brings a present for Shylock but is persuaded to give it to Bassanio instead.

### Bassanio

Hires Launcelot, prepares for a feast, and agrees to let Gratiano accompany him to Belmont with a warning.

### Gratiano

Asks to go to Belmont with Bassanio, who warns him to behave more modestly.

### Shylock

Mentioned as Launcelot's current master, from whom Launcelot wishes to escape.

## Key lines

> Certainly my conscience will serve me to run from this Jew my master.

My conscience tells me it's okay to run away from my Jewish master.

_Launcelot's internal conflict about leaving Shylock._

> It is a wise father that knows his own child.

A father who recognizes his own child is wise.

_Launcelot's ironic comment to his blind father._

> Thou art too wild, too rude and bold of voice; ... Pray thee, take pain to allay with some cold drops of modesty thy skipping spirit.

You are too wild and loud; please try to be more modest and calm.

_Bassanio's warning to Gratiano about his behavior._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_merchant_of_venice_se/chapters/act-ii-scene-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_merchant_of_venice_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_merchant_of_venice_se/chapters