In the CliffsComplete guides, the novel's complete text and a glossary appear side-by-side with coordinating numbered lines to help you understand unusual words and phrasing. You'll also find all the commentary and resources of a standard CliffsNotes for Literature. CliffsComplete The Merchant of Venice offers insight and information into a work that's rich both dramatically and thematically. Every generation since Shakespeare's time has been able to identify with some thematic aspect of the play. Discover what happens to a young merchant who cannot repay a debt to a vindictive money lender; meet the menacing Shylock, one of the most vivid and memorable characters in Shakespeare's works — and save valuable studying time — all at once. Enhance your reading of The Merchant of Venice with these additional features: A summary and insightful commentary for each act Bibliography and historical background on the author, William Shakespeare A look at Early Modern English intellect, religion, politics, and society Coverage of Shakespeare's source and the play's performance history A character map that graphically illustrates the relationships among the characters Review questions, a quiz, discussion guide, and activity ideas A Resource Center full of books, articles, films, and Web sites Streamline your literature study with all-in-one help from CliffsComplete guides!

The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. In CliffsNotes on The Merchant of Venice, you follow along as a young merchant cannot repay his debt to a vindictive moneylender. This is the story that introduces us to Shylock, one of the most vivid and memorable characters in Shakespeare's work. You'll gain insight into this romantic comedy as you move through each of the play's five acts. Other features that help you figure out this important work include Life and background of the author Analyses of the characters A brief synopsis of the play A review section that tests your knowledge A selected bibliography that leads you to more great resources Classic literature or modern-day treasure — you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.