act 1 scene 1

Antonio says he does not what causes his sadness. salarino and solanio suggest that he is worried about the safety of his ships in which he has invested so much money. more friends one of them gratanio comments on how careworn Antonio has become. gratanio advises Antonio against using sadness to gain a reputation for wisdom. Antonio is ready to help bassanio explains that he wishes to marry Portia a wealthy heiress. rich and famous men from all over the world come to woo her

act 1 scene 2

in this scene we are introduced to Portia and  nerissa. nerissa seems to be Portia’s adviser to enforce her dead fathers will. “your father was ever virtous