Introducing our blog!

The world of English literature is a rich one. From Old English literature like Beowulf to modern literary classics, what makes good literature is hotly debated. English literature is full of stories that resonate with us, play with the most beautiful aspects of the English language, and make us think about the world around us and our relationship to you. Since part of the joy of literature is in interpreting it, it should be no surprise that there are plenty of excellent English literature blogs, dissecting and discussing the literary works that create new generations of writers.
Here we will reconstruct a bit of an idea of English Literature and how it can be learned. But I have an even better idea of utilizing your learning point to the point of success… Certainly you’re going to love this Blog and get ready for the Test.

Submit a brief summary of the plot of The Merchant of Venice, using keywords from the Cloze Test. Max. 250 words

Antonio, the merchant of Venice, gives 3.000 ducats to his friend Bassanio so that he can marry the wealthy and beautiful Portia of Belmonte. Since Antonio’s money is tied up in business that depends on the safe return of his ships from sea, he borrows the money from Shylock, a Jewish moneylender who he has previously insulted for his high interest. Shylock proposes a bond according to which if Antonio does not repay the loan, Shylock will have the right to a pound of Antonio’s flesh. Portia’s father has decided that she will marry the man choosing the correct casket among three (gold, silver and lead). The Princes of Morocco and Aragon fail, but Bassanio succeeds by choosing lead. News arrives that Antonio’s ships have been lost, so he is unable to pay his debt. Shylock’s demands his pound of flesh and brings the guys before the law court. Portia disguises herself as a young lawyer acting on behalf of Antonio. She states that Shylock is entitled to his pound of flesh but not to spill any of Antonio’s blood; moreover the Jew should forfeit his life for having conspired against the life of a Venetian. The judge pardons Shylock on condition that he gives half his wealth to Antonio and half to the state. Antonio refuses his portion on condition that Shylock converts to Christianity and leaves his property to his daughter Jessica, who had run away with her Christian lover Lorenzo. Finally there is good news about Antonio’s ships.

(Riassunto di Federica)