Find out more about Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice as well as information on current and past productions of the play.
Plot synopsis
In Belmont: Portia, a wealthy heiress, has been left three caskets in her father's will - one of gold, one of silver, and one of lead. Inside one casket is her portrait, and Portia is obliged to marry the man who chooses correctly. Suitors come from the four corners of the world to win her hand.
In Venice: Bassanio, a young man about town, is determined to woo Portia for himself. In order to finance his expedition, he needs three thousand ducats - a huge amount of money. He asks Antonio, a rich merchant who loves him, to lend him the money. Read more...
Tim Carroll interview
Read an interview with director Tim Carroll on his production of The Merchant of Venice. Read more...
Exploring Shakespeare
Visit Exploring Shakespeare for more on Shakespeare's sources, a stage history and information on other RSC productions. Read more...
Digitised picture archive
See pictures from productions of The Merchant of Venice throughout the centuries. See more...
Read or listen to the play in advance
The RSC Shop has recordings of the plays and copies of the play texts available to buy online.
