Page 2: Climax and Resolution

The short summary of Merchant of Venice in 200 words continues with Bassanio successfully solving the casket riddle, choosing lead and winning Portia's hand. To seal their engagement, Portia gives Bassanio a ring with a significant condition:

Quote: "Portia gives Bassanio a ring and she tells him he can never lose it or give it away."

Simultaneously, Nerissa and Gratiano announce their intention to wed. However, the joyous mood is interrupted by a letter from Antonio, revealing his dire situation with Shylock demanding his pound of flesh.

Portia, demonstrating her resourcefulness, devises a plan to save Antonio. She and Nerissa disguise themselves as a lawyer and law clerk, respectively, and travel to Venice. In the Venetian court, Portia, posing as Balthazar, delivers a masterful legal argument:

Highlight: Portia points out that if any blood is shed while Shylock cuts Antonio's flesh, all of Shylock's wealth will be confiscated by the State.

This clever interpretation of the law forces Shylock to abandon his claim. The court then finds Shylock guilty of plotting against a Venetian citizen, resulting in severe penalties. However, Antonio and the Duke show mercy, allowing Shylock to keep half his wealth if he converts to Christianity and bequeaths his estate to Jessica and Lorenzo upon his death.

The plot breakdown of the merchant of venice play concludes with a series of revelations and reconciliations:

1. Bassanio and Gratiano reluctantly give away their rings to the disguised Portia and Nerissa as thanks for saving Antonio.
2. Back in Belmont, the women feign indignation at the loss of the rings before revealing their roles in the court scene.
3. The couples are happily reunited.
4. News arrives that Antonio's ships have safely returned to port, bringing the story to a satisfying close.

This detailed summary of the merchant of venice sparknotes encapsulates the play's exploration of love, justice, mercy, and the consequences of prejudice in Renaissance Venice.