The Merchant of Venice by Shakespeare

The Merchant of Venice is a comedy by Shakespeare which tells the story of a money-lender who refuses to grant mercy and therefore does not receive any. Although the title refers to Antonio, the merchant, the money-lender Shylock could be considered the main character of the story.

Act One introduces the reader to Antonio. He is sad, and his friends, Salerio and Solanio, are trying to cheer him up. Another of his friends, Bassanio, comes to ask for money. Antonio is a devoted friend to Bassanio, and has lent him money in the past. Although Bassanio has never paid back any of the money, Antonio agrees to let his friend take advantage of all his personal credit. Bassanio wants the money so he can court Portia, a rich heiress.

In Belmont, Portia is lamenting the method by which she must choose her husband. Her father decreed in his will that all her suitors would choose from three caskets, in hopes of getting the one with Portia's picture inside. The first one to do so would be able to marry Portia, while those who chose wrongly could not marry her - or anyone else!

Bassanio is willing to take the risk, now that he has Antonio's credit. He goes to the money-lender, Shylock, and arranges to borrow a sum of money. Since he is borrowing on his friend's credit, the penalty for forfeiting the debt is one pound of Antonio's flesh. It is no coincidence that Shylock has been seeking revenge against Antonio, who had made derogatory remarks against him.

Act Two begins with the Prince of Morocco seeking Portia's hand in marriage. Portia hopes that he will choose the wrong casket. Lancelot, one of Shylock's servants, decides to work for Bassanio instead. Bassanio accepts him, and also agrees that Gratiano, a close friend, may accompany him to Belmont.

Jessica, Shylock's daughter, says goodbye to Lancelot and sends a message by him to Lorenzo, another of Bassanio's servants. Jessica and Lorenzo are in love and wish to marry. Lancelot delivers the letter and receives the answer, then Lorenzo and Gratiano make plans for the elopement. Jessica prepares to leave her father, disguising herself as a page and gathering money and jewels.