The Merchant of Venice

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Set against the backdrop of Elizabethan Venice, the narrative explores themes of love, mercy, and prejudice through the story of Bassanio, who seeks to marry the wealthy heiress Portia. Financially strained, he turns to Antonio for help, leading to a controversial agreement with Shylock, a Jewish moneylender. The play's complex portrayal of Shylock raises questions about anti-Semitism and empathy, blending elements of comedy and tragedy. This edition features annotations and a preface, enhancing the reader's understanding of its enduring themes.