When the young Bassanio sees the beautiful Portia, he approaches some money lenders in order to become an acceptable suitor.

When his usual lender turns him down, he approaches Shylock who promises him the money if he can take a pound of Bassino's flesh if he fails to repay the loan by a certain date.

Agreeing to the terms, Bassanio sets off to pursue Portia but must overcome an unsettling puzzle in order to get her.