Merchant Of Venice (No Fear Shakespeare): Volume 10 (Study Guide) by Sparknotes and Sparknotes

Discover the brilliance of Shakespeare’s plays in their entirety, without feeling intimidated by the language! Our collection of popular guides ensures that you can easily access and appreciate the works of the Bard. Each No Fear guide presents:

• The full text of the original play,
• A line-by-line translation that conveys the meaning in everyday language,
• A comprehensive list of characters, complete with descriptions,
• Abundant, insightful commentary to enhance your understanding.

With these essential tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to delve into Shakespeare’s masterpieces like never before. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to the profound depth and beauty of his writing!

Summary of The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare

“The Merchant of Venice” by William Shakespeare begins with Antonio, a Christian merchant, feeling down. His friends speculate that he may be worried about his ships at sea. Bassanio, a dear friend of Antonio who has lost all his money, asks Antonio for a loan so he can go to Belmont and court a wealthy heiress named Portia. Although Antonio cannot lend the money directly, he offers to use his credit to secure a loan for Bassanio. Bassanio finds a Jewish moneylender who agrees to lend him 3,000 ducats without interest, but with the condition that if Antonio cannot repay, he must give a pound of flesh. Meanwhile, in Belmont, Portia is sad because her deceased father has set up a test for her suitors. They must choose between three caskets, one of which contains her portrait. The Prince of Morocco chooses the wrong casket, as does the Prince of Aragon. In Venice, Shylock’s daughter Jessica plans to elope with Lorenzo, a Christian man, and takes her father’s money with her. Rumors spread that Antonio’s ships have been lost at sea, and Shylock plans to exact his revenge. Bassanio arrives in Belmont and chooses the right casket, and he and Portia become engaged. However, Antonio informs Bassanio that he cannot repay the loan, and Shylock demands his pound of flesh in court. Portia arrives disguised as a lawyer and pleads for mercy, but Shylock is adamant. Ultimately, Portia saves Antonio’s life by stating that he can have his flesh, but not a drop of blood. She also ensures that Shylock must give up half his wealth and convert to Christianity. The play ends with the couples happily reunited and Shylock losing everything.”