William Shakespeare's Works/Comedies/The Merchant of Venice/Act 1

 Scene 1 

Antonio is very depressed; he is willing to fund Bassanio's expedition to Belmont, but must try to borrow money from Shylock to do so.

 Scene 2 

Portia longs to find a husband, but all her suitors must submit to a test arranged by her father before his death.

 Scene 3 

Shylock agrees to lend money to Antonio - but he demands an unusual bond.