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GCSE English Literature · key term
Decorative outward display. Bassanio uses the word to describe attractive appearances that can conceal danger or wrongdoing.
Used by Edexcel and Eduqas
Paper 1
Revise: Appearance and realityIn Act 1 Scene 1, Bassanio admits spending beyond his means to maintain an impressive lifestyle and introduces Portia as 'a lady richly left,'. His rejection of ornament may show growth, but marriage also solves his financial difficulties. Moreover, the song accompanying his choice warns that attraction begins in the eyes.
Component 1
Something added to make an appearance more attractive. Bassanio uses it to describe outward features that can disguise corruption or weakness.
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His metaphor “Thus ornament is but the guiled shore / To a most dangerous sea;” imagines an inviting shore concealing danger beyond it. “Guiled” suggests deception: attractiveness can tempt someone towards harm. The sea image also connects his thinking in Belmont with the threats surrounding Antonio's merchant ships.
