Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, agrees to lend Antonio, a Venetian merchant, three thousands of ducats in order that his friend Bassanio are able to court his like, Portia. Nevertheless, Shylock offers one condition: should the mortgage go unpaid, he will be eligible for a pound of Antonio’s very own flesh. On the other hand in Belmont, according to the conditions of her father’s will, Portia’s many suitors must select correctly from three caskets. Bassanio arrives at Portia’s estate and they declare their love for one another before he picks the correct casket. Antonio falls into bad fortune and discovers he cannot repay Shylock: a dramatic trial ensues to decide his fate.