In Venice, the merchant Antonio borrows money so his friend can woo a beautiful lady. He agrees that if he doesn’t repay Shylock the moneylender, Shylock can take a pound of his flesh. When Antonio’s ships sink and he loses his fortune, Shylock insists on the gruesome payment…With Notes on Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre and Love, Hate and Mercy in The Merchant of Venice.
**Delve into Shakespeare's Timeless Classic: _The Merchant of Venice_ - Retold for a Modern Audience** Experience the power and drama of William Shakespeare's _The Merchant of Venice_ in this accessible and engaging retelling by Andrew Matthews. This edition breathes new life into the classic tale, making it perfect for students, Shakespeare novices, or anyone looking for a quick and captivating read. Set in the vibrant city of Venice, the story unfolds around the merchant Antonio, a generous man who risks everything for his friend Bassanio. Bassanio, driven by love for the beautiful and wealthy Portia, needs money to properly court her. Antonio, short on funds himself, borrows from the ruthless moneylender Shylock, sealing the deal with a chilling agreement: should Antonio fail to repay the loan, Shylock is entitled to a pound of Antonio's own flesh. As misfortune strikes and Antonio's ships are lost at sea, Shylock relentlessly demands his due. The stage is set for a dramatic confrontation, exploring themes of prejudice, justice, mercy, and the complex relationship between Christians and Jews in Renaissance Venice. Andrew Matthews masterfully condenses Shakespeare's original text while retaining the core elements of the plot, the memorable characters, and the enduring themes that have made _The Merchant of Venice_ a literary masterpiece. This accessible version allows readers to grasp the essence of Shakespeare's genius without being overwhelmed by the complexities of the original language. **Explore the Deeper Meanings:** This edition goes beyond a simple retelling, offering valuable insights to enhance your understanding of the play. Discover fascinating details about Shakespeare's life and the world of the Globe Theatre, where his plays were first performed. Delve into the complex and often controversial themes of the play, exploring the nuances of love, hate, and the importance of mercy. **A Perfect Introduction to Shakespeare:** Whether you're a student encountering Shakespeare for the first time or a seasoned reader looking for a fresh perspective, this retelling of _The Merchant of Venice_ is an excellent choice. Its concise and engaging format makes it ideal for classroom study, book clubs, or simply enjoying a classic story in a new and accessible way. **Features:** * **Retold by Andrew Matthews:** A skilled storyteller who brings Shakespeare's work to life for a modern audience. * **Concise and Engaging:** A perfect introduction to _The Merchant of Venice_ for students and casual readers alike. * **Exploration of Key Themes:** In-depth look at love, hate, mercy, and the historical context of the play. * **Insights into Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre:** Learn about the playwright's life and the world in which his plays were created. **Don't miss this opportunity to experience the power and beauty of _The Merchant of Venice_ in this captivating retelling!**