The Merchant of Venice Synopsis:
Set in 16th century Venice, Shakespeare's timeless comedy-drama follows the fate and fortunes of a group of Christian noblemen and their interactions with the Jewish merchant and moneylender Shylock.
Antonio borrows money from Shylock to help his penniless friend Bassanio in his quest to win the hand of the fair Portia. Bitter at Antonio's insults, Shylock stipulates very specific terms if he defaults on the loan. As Antonio's shipping business is devastated by storms, Shylock is further angered by his daughter's elopement with the nobleman Lorenzo. The loan falls due and Shylock claims his forfeit int he form of a pound of Antonio's flesh. As Bassanio desperately tries to save Antonio from his fate, miraculous help comes from an unexpected quarter. |
