In many respects, the `Merchant of Venice' is a traditional love story. The plot outlines Bassanio's quest to marry the fair Portia, and the difficulties that arise along the way. But in the text, Shakespeare has also explored the other facets of love. He has expertly examined themes of friendship love, and love of money, thus taking a more in depth look at what lies in the hearts of men.

First and foremost, romantic love seems to be the driving force of the whole play. In the opening scenes, we first discover Bassanio's love for the beautiful and well-endowed Portia of Belmont. In Act 1 Sc 1, Bassanio says "Of wondrous virtues: sometimes from her eyes I did receive fair speechless messages." This reveals the intimate connection and love that Bassanio feels he has with Portia, and this connection is verified later in the text when Bassanio wins Portia's hand...