The Merchant of Venice is a play by William Shakespeare that explores themes of love, revenge, and justice in sixteenth-century Venice. The story follows the merchant Antonio, who borrows money from the Jewish moneylender Shylock to help his friend Bassanio win the heart of the wealthy Portia. When Antonio's ships fail to return, he is unable to repay the loan, and Shylock demands his pound of flesh as repayment. This play is a classic work of English literature and a must-read for anyone interested in Shakespearean plays.

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