Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—M

Merchant of Venice

A drama by Shakespeare. A similar story occurs in the Gesta Romanorum. The tale of the bond is chapter xlviii., and that of the caskets is chapter xcix. Shakespeare, without doubt, is also indebted for his plot to the novelette Il Pecorone of Ser. Giovanni. (Fourteenth century.)

Loki made a wager with Brock and lost. He wagered his head, but saved it on the plea that Brock could not take his head without touching his neck. (Simroch's Edda, p. 305.)

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Mercia
Mercator's Projection
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

More on Merchant of Venice from Fact Monster:

  • Merchant of Venice - Merchant of Venice A drama by Shakespeare. A similar story occurs in the Gesta Romanorum. The tale ...
  • Dustin Hoffman - Hoffman, Dustin Hoffman, Dustin , 1937–, American actor, b. Los Angeles. Not glamorous in the ...
  • Lee J. Cobb - Cobb, Lee J. Cobb, Lee J., 1911–76, American actor, b. New York City. He first performed with ...
  • George C. Scott - George C. Scott (George Campbell Scott) actor Born: 10/18/1927 Birthplace: Wise, Virginia Academy ...
  • Lewis Hallam - Hallam, Lewis Hallam, Lewis , c.1714–1756, Anglo-American actor and manager of the first ...

Related Content
© 2000–2008 Pearson Education, publishing as Fact Monster