The Merchant of Venice | A Character Study of Shylock

A discussion of the controversial figure of Shylock, one of Shakespeare's supreme villains and most problematic characters. Includes his relationship with Antonio, and the theme of Christian mercy.

Shylock is one of the most confusing characters in all of Shakespeare's plays. On the surface, he is a villain only concerned about money and revenge. Some critics, however, argue that Shakespeare takes this "stereotypical" Jew much further, making him a complex character whose sufferings at the hands of racists motivate his anger. While Shakespeare gives no definitive answer as to how Shylock should be viewed, he does make important points in support and in denial of this antagonist.

It should be noted prior to any analysis of Shylock that the idea of a villainous "Christianized...

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