Describe the circumstances that lead to the signing of the fatal bond, by Antonio and its consequences.

Love struck and penniless, Bassanio turns to his friend Antonio for help so that he can go and meet his lady love Portia, who has been asked to choose from the suitors her dead father has searched for her. Time is of essence here and since Antonio’s ships are at sea, he decides to borrow money from Shylock on interest. Although Antonio harbours hatred towards Shylock, he agrees to take money to help Bassanio. Shylock, a Jewish money lender, grabs this golden opportunity to make scores even with his Christian foe and asks Antonio to sign a bond in order to take the money. Antonio willingly agrees to allow Shylock to cut a  pound of flesh from his bond if he is unable to repay the debt on time.