Answer: The Merchant of Venice was one of the greatest plays ever written by the bard, William Shakespeare.
Explanation: While the complete play itself is somewhat convoluted with several subplots and Victorian-era languages and references throughout, the story is primarily about Antonio, a merchant who takes a loan on behalf of his friend Bassanio who needs the money in order to marry Portia, the Duchess of Belmont.
Antonio borrows the money from Shylock, a money-lender who is despised by other businessmen including Antonio for his shrewd tactics and his religious beliefs (Judiasim).
Shylock agrees to lend the money but on the stipulation that if Shylock does not receive his money within 3 months, Shylock is entitled to receive one pound of flesh from Antonio.
Antonio agrees to the macabre condition as he believes that he will have the money within that time. Soon after, Portia agrees to marry Bassanio but tragedy strikes as Antonio receives word that his ships have been lost at sea.
So without enough money to pay Shylock, Antonio must give up a pound of flesh. However, just as legal proceedings are about to begin, Portia, disguised as a man, argues Antonio's case and stops Shylock from preventing such a heinous act and wins the case.
Shylock in turn is punished for attempting to kill Antonio in this manner and all his wealth is seized. The play ends on a high note, with Antonio learning that his ships were intact and he is the Merchant of Venice once more.