Deception and Pride-- Bassanio, a Venetian nobleman, wishes to woo the beautiful and wealthy Portia, but he is short on funds. So he turns to his friend Antonio, a wealthy merchant. Antonio agrees to help, but currently he is cash strapped as all of his ships are at sea. He agrees instead to guarantee a loan for Bassanio. Bassanio turns to Antonio`s rival and enemy Shylock for the loan. I hold the world but as the world, Gratiano,- A stage, where every man must play a part; And mine a sad one.