Because the play is based on a medieval story, Shakespeare’s exposition is important because it establishes the differences between his adaptation and the original tale. The thematic elements introduced to Merchant of Venice require some adjustments to the information presented in exposition. For example, Shakespeare’s version of the challenge to win Portia’s hand fits better with the play’s heightened emphasis on religious values and morality, especially since Portia represents a virtuous Christian character diametrically opposed to Shylock the Jew. Shakespeare also inserts exposition detailing Antonio’s willingness to lend Bassanio money on top of his already existing debt as a way to further develop the contrast between the “Christian” philosophy of charitable giving and the “Jewish” method of extortion/usury practiced by Shylock. Finally, Shakespeare’s exposition at the beginning of the play establishes that most central characters are wealthy and relate to each other through financial transactions (another predominant theme in this play).