Act III Scene 5
Merchant of Venice Workbook Answers – Act III, Scene 5
Act III, Scene 5 of The Merchant of Venice is a lighter, more humorous scene that offers a contrast to the tension of the preceding acts. Set in Belmont, this scene features a playful exchange between Launcelot Gobbo and Jessica. Launcelot teases Jessica about her conversion to Christianity, humorously claiming it will increase the cost of pork. Despite the jesting tone, the scene subtly touches on deeper themes such as religious identity and social transformation, showing Jessica’s ongoing adjustment to life in a Christian household and her desire to be accepted.
The interaction also reflects Launcelot’s role as the comic relief in the play, using wit and wordplay to diffuse the seriousness of the surrounding drama. Lorenzo soon enters and chides Launcelot for his insolence, while also expressing his affection for Jessica. This brief scene helps to develop the characters’ relationships and prepares the audience for the unfolding events in Belmont. It reinforces the sense of harmony and romance that contrasts sharply with the conflicts brewing in Venice.
