The merchant of Venice: modern text with introduction

Deception and Pride-- Bassanio, a Venetian nobleman, wishes to woo the beautiful and wealthy Portia, but he is short on funds.

So he turns to his friend Antonio, a wealthy merchant.

Antonio agrees to help, but currently he is cash strapped as all of his ships are at sea.

He agrees instead to guarantee a loan for Bassanio. Bassanio turns to Antonio's rival and enemy Shylock for the loan.

I hold the world but as the world, Gratiano,- A stage, where every man must play a part; And mine a sad one.