Final answer:
Jessica does not recognize Lorenzo at first because they are meeting in the darkness. The darkness simplifies the elopement of Jessica and Lorenzo by providing cover and making it easier for them to go unnoticed.
Step-by-step explanation:
In William Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice, Jessica and Lorenzo plan to elope during the night, taking advantage of the darkness to simplify their escape. The darkness provides cover and makes it easier for Jessica and Lorenzo to go unnoticed, especially considering the societal expectations and limitations placed on them as characters in the play.