Merchant of Venice

Although many said that the Merchant of Venice, by William Shakespeare, is a comedy, it is still worth to analyze as there are hidden themes such as prejudice, love and mercy laid behind the scenes.
What is the play about? It is about a Merchant, named Antonio, lent his friend Bassanio, 3000 ducats Bassanio is desperately in need of money to court Portia, a wealthy heiress. Antonio does not have the money on him yet, hence he asked a Jewish money lender, Shylock for a loan. Shylock wanted revenge against Antonio, and he demanded that if he did not repay in 3 months he will have his flesh taken... Click here to read more.
The book, although written in the olden English, is still easier to understand compared to other plays of William Shakespeare. I loved the part of the court scene where Portia cleverly turned the court case against Shylock.
However, i also felt pitiful towards Shylock. I felt that he should deserves the right to carry out the bond, as Antonio had not been forced, but willingly agreed to it. Shylock should get what he wanted.