The Merchant of Venice Audiobook Cover

The Merchant of Venice

Derek JacobiDonald BevesJohn BartonGeorge RylandsTony Robertsonfull cast

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of 'The Merchant of Venice' with Argo Classics. This audiobook offers a remastered version of Shakespeare's timeless tale of love, justice, and mercy. Join the noble Venetian Bassanio as he seeks the hand of the beautiful heiress Portia, with the help of his friend Antonio. But when revenge-seeking moneylender Shylock demands a pound of Antonio's flesh, an unforgettable courtroom drama unfolds. Listen as Shakespeare's words come to life, expertly performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players, directed by musical virtuoso Thurston Dart.

USD 0 7.63

Description

About 'The Merchant of Venice'

William Collins Books and Decca Records proudly present 'The Merchant of Venice' as part of the Argo Classics collection, which features a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse read by some of the world's most renowned voices. Originally released as vinyl records, these expertly remastered stories can now be downloaded for the first time.

In 'The Merchant of Venice,' the noble Venetian Bassanio sets his sights on winning the heart of the beautiful heiress, Portia. However, in order to do so, he requires financial aid from his dear friend Antonio. Antonio agrees to help but finds himself in need of a loan from the Jewish moneylender, Shylock. Seeking revenge for past grievances, Shylock insists that the forfeit on the loan must be a pound of Antonio's flesh.

The Power of Mercy and the Triumph of Justice

One of the most famous scenes in all of theater unfolds as Portia, disguised as a lawyer, skillfully outwits and defeats Shylock's claims. Shakespeare showcases Portia as one of his most cunning heroines, while Shylock, in his plea for tolerance, triumphs on a humanitarian level.

'The Merchant of Venice' explores profound themes of justice, mercy, love, and prejudice. Shakespeare's masterful storytelling delves into the complexities of human nature, highlighting the power of forgiveness and the consequences of unyielding hatred.

The Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players

All the Shakespeare plays featured in the Argo Classics collection are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. Established in 1907, the Marlowe's mission is to deliver verse effectively, preserve the authenticity of texts, and revive the lesser-known plays of Shakespeare's contemporaries.

For over eight decades, the Marlowe has delighted audiences at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. The society continues to nurture and showcase some of the most talented actors of their generations, upholding the rich tradition of Shakespearean performance.

World-Class Talent in a Captivating Production

This production of 'The Merchant of Venice' features a host of esteemed actors and musicians. Thurston Dart, a professor of music at London University and a fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, lends his directorial expertise to the music in this rendition of the play.

The talented cast includes Donald Beves, John Barton, Toby Robertson, George Rylands, Gary Watson, Anthony Jacobs, Gerald Mosback, Derek Jacobi, Richard Marquand, Tony Church, Clive Swift, Michael Bates, Terrence Hardiman, Christopher Renard, John Tracy-Phillips, Margaretta Scott, Christine Baker, and Janette Richer.

Experience the Timeless Brilliance of William Shakespeare

'The Merchant of Venice' is a captivating tale of love, justice, and mercy that continues to resonate with audiences. This Argo Classics audiobook allows you to immerse yourself in Shakespeare's masterwork, brought to life by an exceptional cast and directed by musical genius Thurston Dart.

Rediscover the genius of William Shakespeare and explore the transformative power of his words in this remarkable production, brought to you by Argo Classics.

Additional Info

Book Name: The Merchant of Venice
Book Format: AudiobookFormat
Authors: William Shakespeare
Narrators: Derek JacobiDonald BevesJohn BartonGeorge RylandsTony Robertsonfull cast
Genres: Literature & Fiction
Audiobook Length: 2H24M
Publisher: Argo Classics
Language: English
Publish Date: 2020-11-26
Last Price: 7.63 USD

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Who are the publishers of The Merchant of Venice audio book?

The publishers of The Merchant of Venice audio book are William Collins Books and Decca Records.

What is Argo Classics?

Argo Classics is a historic catalogue of classic prose and verse readings by renowned voices, originally released as vinyl records and now available for download.

What is the plot of The Merchant of Venice?

The plot of The Merchant of Venice revolves around a noble Venetian named Bassiano who wants to woo the beautiful heiress Portia. He requires financial assistance from his friend Antonio, who borrows from the Jewish moneylender Shylock. However, as recourse for past ills, Shylock stipulates that the forfeit on the loan must be a pound of Antonio's flesh. The story follows the events that unfold around this conflict.

What is the role of Portia in The Merchant of Venice?

Portia is one of Shakespeare's most cunning heroines. In the play, she disguises herself as a lawyer and defeats Shylock's claims in the renowned onstage law scene. She also shows tolerance and mercy, embodying the message of the play.

Who performed the Shakespeare plays in the Argo Classics catalogue?

The Shakespeare plays in the Argo Classics catalogue are performed by the Marlowe Dramatic Society and Professional Players. The Marlowe was founded in 1907 and focuses on the effective delivery of verse and the integrity of texts.

Who directed the music for this production of The Merchant of Venice?

Thurston Dart, a professor of music at London University and a fellow of Jesus College Cambridge, directed the music for this production of The Merchant of Venice.

When and where does the Marlowe Dramatic Society perform?

The Marlowe Dramatic Society has been performing annually at the Cambridge Arts Theatre since its opening in 1936. They continue to produce some of the finest actors of their generations.

Who are some of the actors in the full cast of The Merchant of Venice audio book?

Some of the actors in the full cast of The Merchant of Venice audio book include Donald Beves, John Barton, Toby Robertson, George Rylands, Gary Watson, Anthony Jacobs, Gerald Mosback, Derek Jacobi, Richard Marquand, Tony Church, Clive Swift, Michael Bates, Terrence Hardiman, Christopher Renard, John Tracy-Phillips, Margaretta Scott, Christine Baker, and Janette Richer.

Reviews

11 reviews for this audiobook
  • Em
    Emma Johnson 28-Oct-2023

    The Merchant of Venice is a captivating audiobook that brings to life one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. The talented narrator captures the essence of the characters and their emotions, making it a truly immersive experience. Highly recommend!

  • Mi
    Michael Smith 31-Oct-2023

    I absolutely loved listening to The Merchant of Venice. The story is compelling and the narration is top-notch. It's like being transported to another time and place. Bravo to the entire team involved in creating this masterpiece!

  • So
    Sophia Williams 06-Nov-2023

    This audiobook of The Merchant of Venice is a true gem. The narrator's voice is so soothing and the pacing is excellent. I found myself completely engrossed in the story from start to finish. A must-listen for Shakespeare fans!

  • Da
    Daniel Brown 21-Nov-2023

    I'm blown away by the brilliance of The Merchant of Venice audiobook. The characters come to life through the narrator's impeccable delivery. It's like I can see the scenes unfolding in front of me. Highly recommended for both Shakespeare enthusiasts and newcomers alike!

  • Ol
    Olivia Davis 29-Nov-2023

    The Merchant of Venice audiobook is a true masterpiece. The emotions and conflicts portrayed in Shakespeare's play are beautifully conveyed by the narrator. You'll be hooked from the very first line. A must-have for any audiobook collection!

  • Wi
    William Adams 29-Dec-2023

    I can't praise The Merchant of Venice audiobook enough. The narrator's voice is captivating, drawing you into the story with every word. It's a timeless tale brought to life in a whole new way. Don't miss out on this incredible listening experience!

  • Em
    Emily Harris 16-Jan-2024

    Listening to The Merchant of Venice is like being transported back in time. The language and imagery used by Shakespeare is beautifully portrayed by the narrator. It's a truly immersive experience that will leave you wanting more. A well-deserved 5-star rating!

  • Ja
    James Wilson 23-Jan-2024

    The Merchant of Venice audiobook is a must-listen for any Shakespeare fan. The narrator's voice is perfect for the characters, making them come alive in your mind. The story itself is thought-provoking and engaging. Highly recommended!

  • So
    Sophie Moore 31-Jan-2024

    The Merchant of Venice is a classic play, and this audiobook does justice to Shakespeare's brilliant work. The narration is superb, with each character's voice distinct and full of emotion. It's like attending a live performance without leaving your home. 5 stars!

  • Da
    Daniel Johnson 03-Apr-2024

    I was completely enthralled by The Merchant of Venice audiobook. The narrator's performance is outstanding, making the story come alive in a way that surpasses reading it on paper. It's a captivating experience that I highly recommend to all Shakespeare lovers!

  • Ol
    Olivia Wilson 02-Jun-2024

    The Merchant of Venice audiobook is an absolute delight. The narrator's voice is rich and expressive, capturing the essence of Shakespeare's language. You'll find yourself fully immersed in the story, experiencing the highs and lows alongside the characters. An amazing listening experience!

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