The Merchant of Venice

William Shakespeare

Main CharactersShylock: A Jewish moneylender who seeks legal vengeance for the years of abuse he has suffered in Venice. Portia: A brilliant and wealthy heiress who disguises herself as a lawyer to save her husband's friend. Antonio: The titular merchant whose self-sacrificing love for his friend puts his own life in peril.

First Performance: 1605, at Globe Theatre, London

Popular in its day; has evolved into a deeply debated work regarding its portrayal of religious conflict.