The Merchant of Venice
William Shakespeare
A Venetian merchant borrows money from a Jewish moneylender Shylock to help a friend woo a wealthy heiress. When the debt cannot be paid Shylock demands a pound of flesh as per their contract leading to a dramatic courtroom confrontation. The play is a problem comedy that deals with themes of justice mercy and anti-Semitism. It is famous for Portia’s quality of mercy speech and the complex controversial character of Shylock.
Shylock: 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.
Original Actors: Richard Burbage