'All that glisters is not gold.'
Act II scene 7
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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...
Digitised picture archive
See pictures from productions of The Merchant of Venice throughout the centuries. See more...
