Merchant of Venice

*The Merchant of Venice* is a play by William Shakespeare that explores themes of mercy, justice, and prejudice. It centers on Antonio, a merchant who borrows money from Shylock, a moneylender, agreeing to a harsh bond: if he cannot repay, Shylock can take a pound of his flesh. When Antonio's ships are lost, he cannot repay, leading to a tense courtroom scene. The play examines complex moral questions about mercy, revenge, and racial bias, highlighting how societal attitudes and personal choices impact justice and relationships.