Key vocabulary for studying this play at KS3 and GCSE.
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| bond | A binding agreement with legal force. |
| mercy | Compassion or forgiveness shown to someone it is within one's power to punish. "The quality of mercy is not strained; / It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven." |
| usury | The practice of lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest. |
| pound of flesh | Shylock's security — literally a pound of Antonio's flesh. Has become a phrase for a harsh, literal demand. |
| casket | A small ornamental box or chest. The three caskets — gold, silver, lead — test Portia's suitors. |
Free quiz on The Merchant of Venice — instant answers, no login.