Question

Please give a small summary of The Merchant Of Venice which can be written as an introduction.​

Answer 1

Answer:

The play commences on a street in Venice. Shakespeare introduces the central character of the play, Antonio, as the merchant of power and influence. Bassanio, his friend, confesses to him that he is in love with Portia, a rich heiress of Belmont. In order to present himself as an eligible suitor to Portia, he seeks a loan from Antonio. Antonio has no money in hand to lend as his fortunes are tied up with his ships at sea. However, he promises to help Bassanio to take loan from moneylenders using his (Antonio's) name.