View source for The Merchant of Venice

==Characters==
'''The Duke of Venice''' judges the trial of Shylock and Antonio.  

'''The Prince of Morocco''' is a suitor of Portia, who incorrectly guesses the gold casket.

'''The Prince of Arragon''' is another suitor of Portia, who incorrectly guesses the silver casket.

'''Antonio''' is a merchant of Venice and close friend to Bassanio and enemy to Shylock.  Shylock almost kills him, but he is saved and gives mercy to Shylock in return.

'''Bassanio''' is a poor friend of Antonio, who often relied upon his friend for money.  He wins and marries the Lady Portia, but is tricked by her, when she is disguised, into giving away his ring.  

'''Salanio & Salarino''' are two friends of Antonio.

'''Gratiano''' is a close friend to Bassanio, who goes to Belmont and marries Portia's maid.  He too is tricked into giving away his ring to his wife, while she is disguised as a clerk.

'''Lorenzo''' is another friend to Bassanio, who elopes with Shylock's daughter, Jessica.  Shylock is required to provide him with all his possessions after he dies by Antonio.

'''Shylcok''' a Jewish money-lender and deep enemy of Antonio.  He tricks Antonio into a dangerous bond, but in court the tables are turned on him and he is forced to convert.

'''Tubal''' a Jewish friend of Shylock.

'''Launcelot Gobbo''' is a servant of Shylock, who switches to Bassanio's service.

'''Old Gobbo''' is Launcelot's blind father.

'''Portia''' is a fair lady of Belmont, who is sought after by numerous men.  She is won by Bassanio and saves Antonio from death by foiling Shylock's claim to revenge.  She also plays a trick on her husband.

'''Nerissa''' is Portia's servant, that marries Gratiano and follows her mistress' example by playing a trick on him.

'''Jessica''' is the daughter to Shylock, who willingly runs away with Lorenzo.