Merchant of Venice Act 3, Scene 5

The scene begins in a garden in Portia's Belmont home. Launcelot and Jessica enter. Launcelot tells Jessica that she is doomed, because her father's sins will be wrought upon her. She insists that she's no longer cursed - her marriage has made her a Christian. Launcelot is skeptical of the massive push towards conversion: "This making of Christians will raise the price of hogs." Act 3, Scene 5, lines 25-6

Topic Tracking: Persecution 7

Lorenzo enters, feigning jealousy at finding at seeing Launcelot with his wife. Jessica explains that she's taken a dislike to Launcelot because of his persecution of her. Lorenzo asks Launcelot to go and make sure that dinner is being prepared. Launcelot verbally spars with Lorenzo, angering him. Launcelot finally leaves. Lorenzo is furious with Launcelot and his insubordinate trickery. He awkwardly changes the subject and asks her what she thinks of Portia. Jessica believes that Bassanio couldn't have found himself a better wife. They leave for dinner.