The Merchant of Venice

by William Shakespeare

What is The Merchant of Venice about?

Antonio borrows from Shylock on a bond of a pound of flesh, and Portia comes to court in disguise. The Merchant of Venice is a short illustrated drama story by William Shakespeare, written for teens and adults.

Who is The Merchant of Venice for?

The Merchant of Venice is best for teens and adults — confident readers ready for longer, older-style language. It also makes a rewarding read-aloud for families and book clubs.

Reading tips for The Merchant of Venice

• Older books use longer sentences and old-fashioned words — read the first chapter aloud together to get into the style.
• Keep a note of characters as you meet them.
• Log each reading session in the free Pagine app to keep a streak going.

📝 Studying it for class? The Merchant of Venice quiz with answers — 35 questions act by act, plus characters, themes and essay questions.

👩‍🏫 Teachers: assign this book to your class.

More by William Shakespeare

• A Midsummer Night’s Dream — read free →
• Hamlet — read free →
• Julius Caesar — read free →
• Macbeth — read free →
• Much Ado About Nothing — read free →
• Othello — read free →
• Romeo and Juliet — read free →
• The Tempest — read free →

See all William Shakespeare books, bio & free sources →

Similar free books you may like

• A dangerous friendA dangerous friend
• Told in gallant deedsTold in gallant deeds
• DreamikinsDreamikins
• Christina and the boysChristina and the boys
• My friend Doggie; or, An only childMy friend Doggie; or, An only child
• A thoughtless sevenA thoughtless seven

Part of: British classics reading list

Find “The Merchant of Venice” elsewhere

Prefer print, audio or another edition? Open Library · Your local library · More by William Shakespeare on Open Library. Most public libraries also lend ebooks and audiobooks free with a library card through Libby / OverDrive.

Frequently asked questions

Is The Merchant of Venice free to read online?

Yes. The Merchant of Venice is free to read online in Pagine on any phone, tablet or computer — no payment and nothing to download.

What age is The Merchant of Venice for?

The Merchant of Venice is best for teens and adults.

Who wrote The Merchant of Venice?

The Merchant of Venice was written by William Shakespeare.

Can I download The Merchant of Venice?

Read it online in Pagine; no download is needed.

Track reading with the free Pagine app

Log books, set goals and build a daily reading habit — free on iOS, Android and the web.

Get the free app →

Page updated October 2026 · Browse 20,000+ more free books