Act 1, Scene 2 Summary

The scene opens with Ferneze, the Maltese governor, some of his men, some bashaws, who are Turkish military men, and Calymath, the leader of the Turks. Ferneze demands to know why they have come. The bashaw says that Malta has gone too long without paying tribute and demands the equivalent of ten years worth of tribute. If the tribute is not paid, they will seize power over Malta.

Calymath, the son of the Turkish ruler, introduces himself and states that he is carrying out his father's orders. Ferneze replies that they do not have this much money in the government treasury and tries to negotiate. Calymath and he reach an agreement that the Turks will return in one month for the money. Calymath and the bashaws leave.

Ferneze asks a knight about the Jews, who are arriving. Barabas and the Jews...