The Merchant of Venice Collector's Library

The Merchant of Venice is most associated not with its titular hero, Antonio, but with the complex, unforgettable figure of the money-lender, Shylock. It is Shylock who finances Antonio's friend Bassanio in his pursuit of the beautiful Portia, and who demands a gruesome bond from the wealthy merchant. Described as a comedy in the First Folio, Shakespeare's explorations of prejudice, duty and the nature of justice make for a far darker play.

This Macmillan Collector's Library edition is illustrated throughout by Sir John Gilbert (1817-1897), and includes an introduction by Ned Halley.