Question

Before this extract Launcelot referred to a proverb which is applicable both to Shylock and Bassanio. What was the prov
erb? How is it applicable to both of them?

(Act 2 Scene 2, Merchant of Venice)​

Answer 1

Answer:

The old proverb is very well parted between my master Shylock and you, sir—you have “the grace of God,” sir, and he hath “enough.” LAUNCELOT. Do you know the old proverb “The grace of God is enough,” sir? It could be divided between you and my boss Shylock—you have “the grace of God,” and he has “enough.” BASSANIO.

hope it helped.

Answer 2

Answer:

The old proverb that Launcelot mentions is : ‘The grace of God is wealth enough.’ He says that this proverb is equally applicable to Shylock and Bassanio. Bassanio is a good man and has the grace of God. Shylock does not have grace of God. But he has ‘wealth enough.’