The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare | Act 2, Scene 2

Summary

In Act 2 Scene 2 of 'The Merchant of Venice', Launcelot Gobbo grapples with his conscience over leaving his Jewish master, Shylock, whom he views as the devil. Despite his misgivings, he chooses to stay out of a sense of responsibility. Launcelot's conversation with his father and Bassanio reveals his desire for a new position. Bassanio, initially impatient, eventually hires him. Meanwhile, Bassanio agrees to let the boisterous Graziano accompany him to Belmont, on the condition of his good behavior. The play explores themes of loyalty, societal expectations, and the contrast between the heroic Sir Lancelot and the comical Launcelot Gobbo.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Launcelot Gobbo is a servant to Shylock in 'The Merchant of Venice' and is contemplating leaving his job.
• 🧐 Launcelot's internal conflict is between his dislike for Shylock and his sense of duty to remain with his master.
• 😈 Launcelot refers to Shylock as the devil, reflecting the play's portrayal of Shylock as a villainous character.
• 👨‍👦 Launcelot discusses his dilemma with his father, Old Gobbo, who is also portrayed as somewhat foolish.
• 🤝 Bassanio, a character seeking a new servant, encounters Launcelot and Old Gobbo and is informed of Launcelot's desire to change employment.
• 😌 Launcelot's decision to stay with Shylock is seen as an act of honesty and responsibility despite his personal feelings.
• 🤑 The script alludes to the stereotype of Jews as greedy and stingy through Launcelot's comments about Shylock.
• 📜 The name 'Launcelot' is a play on words, contrasting the heroic Sir Lancelot with the more comical and indecisive Shakespearean character.
• 🎭 The character's names and actions contribute to the play's themes of social hierarchy and the treatment of the 'other'.
• 🎉 Bassanio agrees to let Graziano accompany him to Belmont, with Graziano promising to behave, which adds a layer of comedy to the play.

Q & A

What is Launcelot Gobbo's initial dilemma in Act 2 Scene 2 of The Merchant of Venice?

Launcelot Gobbo is contemplating whether to leave his job serving Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, due to his negative perception of him, but also considering the moral implications of such an action.

What does Launcelot Gobbo ultimately decide to do regarding his employment with Shylock?

Despite his dislike for Shylock, Launcelot decides to remain in his service because he believes it is the honest and responsible thing to do.

What does Launcelot Gobbo refer to as his 'conscience' when discussing his job with Shylock?

Launcelot uses the term 'conscience' to describe his internal conflict between his dislike for Shylock and his sense of duty to remain in his service.

Who does Launcelot Gobbo speak with on the street, and what does he reveal to this person?

Launcelot speaks with his father, Old Gobbo, revealing his unhappiness with his current job and his desire to seek employment elsewhere.

How does Bassanio become aware of Launcelot's desire to change employers?

Bassanio learns about Launcelot's desire to leave Shylock's service when Old Gobbo tells him about it while they are talking.

What does Launcelot ask Bassanio, and how does Bassanio respond?

Launcelot asks Bassanio for a job, to which Bassanio agrees, making Launcelot overjoyed.

What does Graziano want from Bassanio, and what is Bassanio's initial concern?

Graziano wants to accompany Bassanio to Belmont. Bassanio is concerned that Graziano's wild and bold behavior might jeopardize his relationship with Portia.

What promise does Graziano make to Bassanio to ensure he can come along to Belmont?

Graziano promises to put on a sober habit and behave himself, which convinces Bassanio to let him accompany him.

What is the significance of the name 'Launcelot Gobbo' in the context of the play?

The name 'Launcelot Gobbo' is significant as it alludes to the heroic knight Sir Lancelot from King Arthur's legends, creating an ironic contrast with the indecisive and comical character in Shakespeare's play.

What does the term 'lancelet' refer to, and how does it relate to Launcelot's character?

A 'lancelet' is a small sword or man-at-arms, which is descriptive of Launcelot's lower social position as a house servant.

How does the description of Shylock as a 'very Jew' and the portrayal of Old Gobbo's silliness reflect the play's themes?

The description of Shylock and the portrayal of Old Gobbo's silliness reflect the play's themes of social hierarchy and the treatment of minorities, as well as the use of humor to explore complex societal issues.