Act 2, Scene 4 Summary

Gratiano, Lorenzo, Salarino, and Solanio discuss the preparations for the masquerade party that evening and how they have no torchbearers. Launcelot enters and gives Lorenzo the letter, who excuses himself for a moment to read it. Launcelot exits to invite Shylock to dine with Bassanio that evening, while Salarino and Solanio exit to prepare for the party. Lorenzo tells Gratiano that the letter is from Jessica explaining how he is to help her run away from home that same night. Lorenzo tells Gratiano that if Shylock goes to Heaven, it will be because of Jessica. Lorenzo hands Gratiano the letter and tells him that Jessica will be his torchbearer for the masquerade.

Act 2, Scene 4 Analysis

The continued contempt of Shylock is again voiced by Lorenzo, who believes Jessica to be more virtuous by turning her back on her heritage and embracing...