(1) Key Note of the Play : In the opening scene Shakespeare introduces the main characters and events of the play. First of all we are introduced to Antonio, the rich merchant of Venice and his friends. Then Antonio’* sadness strikes the keynote of the comedy. His friends think that the cause of his sadness must be either, his anxiety about his ventures abroad or he must be in love with someone. But he himself thinks that he is by nature sad and has a sad part of play in life.
*(2) Antonio’ Generosity :** Then we are introduced to Bassanio, a close friend of Antonio. Bassanio is a spend thrift who has borrowed huge sums of money from Antonio and has wasted them. He now desires more money to go to Belmont to win the hand of rich and most beautiful Portia. But Antonio thinks in a generous way.
(3) Seeds of Various Stories : Antonio has no ready money. So he authorises Bassanio to borrow the money on his credit from any quarter at any rate of interest. Bassanio goes to Shylock, a great of Antonia. Yet in a revengeful mood, he agrees to give money on **** of bond signed by Antonio. Antonio signs the bond. Thus bond story here takes birth. Getting the money Bassanio will go to Belmont where casket story will take birth. Bassanio is the source of bond story and he is the hero of casket story. Thus the two stories are here interconnected. A hint has also been given in this scene of the elopment of Jessica with Lorenzo.
Thus in every way, the scene is of essential dramatic importance. It strikes the keynote of the play, introduces the main characters as well as different stories which form the part of the play.
