The Merchant of Venice

In this lively comedy of love and money in sixteenthcentury Venice, Bassanio wants to impress thewealthy heiress Portia but lacks the necessary funds.He turns to his merchant friend, Antonio, who isforced to borrow from Shylock, a Jewishmoneylender. When Antonio's business falters,repayment becomes impossible-and by the terms ofthe loan agreement, Shylock is able to demand apound of Antonio's flesh.