# Scene VI explained — The Merchant of Venice

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

## What happens

Gratiano and Salarino wait under a pent-house for Lorenzo, who arrives late. Lorenzo calls to Jessica, who appears above in boy's clothes. She throws down a casket and descends, having taken more ducats. They leave for Bassanio's feast. Antonio arrives and tells Gratiano there will be no masque that night as Bassanio is about to sail.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Friendship

Lorenzo and Jessica's elopement is driven by love, while Gratiano and Salarino's loyalty to Lorenzo highlights friendship.

### Gender and Disguise

Jessica disguises herself as a boy to escape, reflecting the theme of gender transformation and concealment.

## Character check-ins

### Gratiano

Waits for Lorenzo, comments on the nature of love and desire.

### Salarino

Accompanies Gratiano in waiting for Lorenzo.

### Lorenzo

Arrives late to meet Jessica and elope with her.

### Jessica

Appears above in boy's clothes, throws down a casket of ducats, and descends to elope with Lorenzo.

### Antonio

Arrives to inform Gratiano that the masque is cancelled and Bassanio is about to sail.

## Key lines

> For lovers ever run before the clock.

Lovers are always early because they are eager.

_Gratiano comments on the impatience of lovers._

> All things that are, Are with more spirit chased than enjoy’d.

Everything is pursued with more enthusiasm than it is enjoyed once obtained.

_Gratiano reflects on the fleeting nature of desire._

> But love is blind and lovers cannot see The pretty follies that themselves commit.

Love makes people overlook their own silly mistakes.

_Jessica excuses her cross-dressing by invoking love's blindness._

## Links

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