Question

Write down 5 ways in which money (or the lack of it) is presented in the play the Merchant of Venice.

Answer 1

1. The theme of money is central to the plot of the play, as the merchant Antonio borrows money from the Jewish moneylender Shylock in order to finance his friend Bassanio's courtship of Portia.

2. Shylock's desire for monetary retribution drives much of the conflict in the play, as he seeks to collect a pound of flesh from Antonio as repayment for the debt.

3. The character of Portia is also tied to money, as she is portrayed as a wealthy heiress whose suitors must pass a test involving caskets of gold, silver, and lead in order to win her hand in marriage.

4. The subplot involving the ring that Bassanio gives to Portia also revolves around money, as it symbolizes his willingness to sacrifice material possessions for love.

5. The play ultimately grapples with questions of greed, justice, and the true value of wealth, as characters must navigate their relationships with money in order to achieve their goals.