The Merchant of Venice

Title: The Merchant of Venice

Author: William Shakespeare
Premiere: c. 1596–1599, English
Setting: Venice and the estate of Belmont, Italy
Main Characters:

• Antonio (a Venetian merchant)

• Shylock (a Jewish moneylender)

• Bassanio (Antonio’s friend, in love with Portia)

• Portia (a wealthy heiress with a sharp intellect)

• Gratiano (Bassanio’s friend)

• Jessica (Shylock’s daughter)

• Lorenzo (Jessica’s Christian lover)

Plot Summary:
Antonio borrows money from Shylock to help his friend Bassanio court the wealthy Portia. Shylock, long mistreated by Venetian society, demands a “pound of flesh” as collateral. When Antonio’s ships are lost at sea and he cannot repay the loan, Shylock demands his bond in court. Meanwhile, Portia disguises herself as a male lawyer and defends Antonio in a brilliant legal twist, arguing that Shylock can have the flesh but not a drop of blood. Shylock is defeated, stripped of his wealth, and forced to convert to Christianity. Elsewhere, the romantic subplot concludes with multiple marriages and lighthearted revelations.

Key Themes & Significance:
The Merchant of Venice explores themes of justice, mercy, prejudice, and the law. While the play includes comedic and romantic elements, it also confronts complex issues of religious intolerance and human dignity. Shylock remains one of Shakespeare’s most controversial and compelling characters, challenging audiences to examine both villainy and victimhood.