merchantA central figure in the book, representing a trader or a seller.
Definitions:
A person or company involved in wholesale trade."He is a merchant dealing in textiles."
usurerThe concept of money lending which is important to understand the character of Shylock.
Definitions:
A person who lends money at unreasonably high rates of interest."Shylock was viewed as a usurer because of his high interest rates."
bondA pivotal object in the story that Shylock asks Antonio to agree to.
Definitions:
An agreement with legal force."He signed the bond without fully understanding the consequences."
casketThe three caskets constitute a significant test in the book for Portia's suitors.
Definitions:
A small ornamental box or chest for holding jewels, letters, or other valuable objects."The prince had to choose between the gold, silver, and lead casket."
renounceA word often used in the book, meaning to give up or refuse something.
Definitions:
Formally declare one's abandonment of."In the end, Shylock was forced to renounce his religion."