The plot of The Merchant of Venice follows the chronological order of events in the story. It begins with the exposition, setting up the situation in Venice in 1596 where Jews were forced to live in the ghetto. The rising action involves Bassanio borrowing money from Antonio to propose to Portia, with Shylock agreeing on the condition that if Antonio defaults, Shylock can take a pound of his flesh. The climax occurs when Antonio cannot repay the loan and Shylock demands his pound of flesh. In the falling action, Portia and Nerissa disguise themselves and help Antonio use a loophole to save his life. The resolution concludes with Shylock losing his wealth and converting to Christianity while Antonio