Merchant Of Venice Plot Synopsis

Merchant Of Venice Plot Synopsis

Plot Synopsis

Antonio, a Venetian merchant, complains to his friends of a sadness, perhaps because Bassanio is away. Meanwhile Bassanio is desperately in need of money to court Portia, a wealthy lady who lives in the city of Belmont. Bassanio requests Antonio for a loan in order to travel in style to Portia's estate. Antonio is unable to give the loan himself because his money is all invested in the trade ships that are still at sea. Antonio suggests that Bassanio secure the loan from the moneylender Shylock, with him as guarantor. Once his ships are back he would be able to repay it.



They approach Shylock, who nurses a long–standing grudge against Antonio, for Antonio has always insulted and accused him and the Jews for their the practice ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...When Bassanio and Gratiano arrive the next day, their wives accuse them of faithlessly giving their rings to other women. Before the deception goes too far, however, Portia reveals that she was, in fact, the law clerk, and both she and Nerissa reconcile with their husbands. Lorenzo and Jessica are pleased to learn of their inheritance from Shylock, and the joyful news arrives that Antonio's ships have in fact made it back safely. The group celebrates its good fortune.



Plot Structure and Themes

There are four interwoven plots are:

Main Plot: The deal or contract between Antonio, a merchant of Venice whose sailing ships trade, and Shylock a Jewish moneylender who dislikes him. Antonio needs money, his ships haven't yet returned. Antonio's ships perish at sea and he fears bankruptcy and death. Shylock is determined to earn the pound of Antonio's flesh that was promised him instead of interest when the loan was made.



Sub plot 1:The love stories – Portia and Bassanio; Jessica and Lorenzo (including Jessica's elopement); Nerissa and Gratiano

Sub plot 3: The casket plot which Portia's suitors have to undergo to marry her

Sub plot 3: the ring plot which Portia and Nerrisa lay to test their would–be

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