The Story of The Merchant of Venice: A Tale of Bias and Retribution

Every great hero has an ultimate foe, and this holds true for Shakespearean protagonists as well. In The Merchant of Venice, the main character Antonio finds himself at odds with his nemesis, Shylock.

The Influences Behind Shakespeare's Play

Like many other works by the playwright, Shakespeare drew inspiration from various sources while writing The Merchant of Venice. For example, the three-casket test in Act 2, Scene 7, used to select Portia's suitor, was taken from the Gesta Romanorum, a collection of Latin tales from the 13th and 14th centuries. However, the most significant influence on the play was the treatment of Jews in Elizabethan England. During this time, Jews were expelled from the country, and their possessions were seized by the crown. It wasn't until 1657 that the Edict of Expulsion was lifted, allowing Jews to return to England once again.

The Royal Decree of 1290 and Its Impact

In 1290, King Edward I issued the Edict of Expulsion, which commanded all Jews to leave England by November 1st and forfeit their belongings to the crown.

The Anti-Semitic Sentiments in The Merchant of Venice

The play serves as a reflection of the pervasive anti-Semitic attitudes that existed in England for over three centuries. Interestingly, the setting of the play is in Italy, rather than England, as Jews were still prohibited from entering the country. Scholars have debated whether Shakespeare himself held anti-Semitic beliefs or if he was simply highlighting the unjust prejudices of Elizabethan society. Regardless of his intention, it is evident that Shakespeare's portrayal of Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, is that of a complex and intriguing character. He openly addresses the discrimination against Jews, and his actions are a product of the mistreatment and marginalization he has endured from society.

The Plot of The Merchant of Venice

The themes of money, possessions, and wealth are just as relevant in the 16th century as they are today. The play begins with Bassanio, a wealthy merchant, confessing to his friend Antonio that he wishes to marry his true love but lacks the funds to do so. Antonio, who has always helped Bassanio in the past, promises to aid him once again.

However, Antonio is facing financial difficulties and does not have any cash on hand. All of his money is invested in his trading ships, which are currently at sea. Enter Portia, a wealthy heiress who has recently inherited a large fortune from her deceased father. In his will, her father has set conditions for her potential suitors, including a challenging test involving three chests. Bassanio, deeply in love with Portia, is just one of many contenders hoping to win her hand.

Meanwhile, Bassanio reluctantly approaches Shylock, who has previously suffered at the hands of Antonio's meddling, to request a loan in Antonio's name. Aware of the risks associated with Antonio's trade business, including the possibility of his ships not returning, Shylock agrees to lend the money on one condition: if Antonio fails to repay the loan, Shylock can take a pound of flesh from any part of his body. Bassanio is reluctant, but Antonio agrees, confident that he will have the funds to repay the loan within three months.

The story eventually leads Bassanio and his friend Gratiano to Belmont, where they hope to win Portia's hand in marriage.

Before their departure, two friends, Antonio and Bassanio, meet with their friend Lorenzo to celebrate. During their gathering, Lorenzo receives a letter from Shylock's daughter, Jessica, who plans to elope with him. The two conspire to break into the Jewish quarters for their escape. Meanwhile, Bassanio invites Shylock to dinner as Jessica runs away with Lorenzo. Upon discovering that his daughter and a portion of his money are missing, Shylock becomes distressed. At the same time, one of Antonio's friends hears news of a ship sinking at sea and fears it may be Antonio's.

Tensions rise in Venice as word spreads of Antonio's ships sinking. Shylock meets with Antonio's friends and gives a passionate speech about the biases and prejudices he has faced at the hands of Antonio. He vows to seek revenge by demanding a pound of Antonio's flesh. Shylock's friend Tubal arrives and informs them that another one of Antonio's ships has likely sunk.

At Belmont, a Prince from Africa and one from Arragon attempt to choose the correct casket, but both fail. Bassanio arrives at Belmont, and Portia contemplates whether to assist him in selecting the right chest.

Respecting Late Wishes and Confessing Love in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice"

In William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," the characters experience love, growth, and complexity as they navigate through the challenges brought upon them by love, friendship, and societal pressures. Amidst the unfolding events, they learn valuable lessons about forgiveness, mercy, and the consequences of prejudice.

The Love Confessions and Engagement

As the story unravels, Portia and Bassanio declare their love for each other, fulfilling her late father's wishes. Their genuine affection for one another is a refreshing contrast to the toxic relationship between Antonio and Shylock. Similarly, Nerissa and Gratiano also fall in love and happily announce their engagement.

The Unexpected News and Taunts of Revenge

The joyous celebrations are interrupted by a messenger bringing news that Antonio is in jail for failing to repay Shylock on time. In prison, Shylock taunts Antonio, reminding him of their bond and his desire for revenge. Portia, however, remains determined to help and offers to double the debt, sending Bassanio back to Venice with the money.

The Courtroom Drama and Mercy Plea

In the Venetian courtroom, Shylock demands his pound of flesh, refusing any additional offer from Bassanio. Despite the court's attempts to persuade him, Shylock remains steadfast in his revenge. Antonio argues that it is futile to reason with Shylock, citing his Jewish identity as the reason for his lack of mercy. The Duke receives a letter from Dr. Bellario, who sends two lawyers, Balthazar and Stephano, to argue for Antonio's case.

In a passionate appeal, Balthazar (Portia) pleads with Shylock for mercy, pointing out that the bond only allows for a pound of flesh, not a drop of Christian blood. Realizing this would bring harm, Shylock changes his mind and offers to take the money instead. However, Balthazar sees an opportunity to right the wrongs and asks the court to confiscate Shylock's belongings and force him to convert to Christianity.

The Unexpected Twist and Comic Relief

As Balthazar and Stephano refuse any payment or reward, Bassanio and Gratiano insist on repaying them, only to be asked for their wedding rings as payment. In a humorous twist, Portia and Nerissa ask to see the men's rings, pretending to have lost their own, only to later reveal that they were disguised as the lawyers all along. In the end, all is well as the rumors of Antonio's lost ships turn out to be false, and they safely return to Venice.

Exploring the Characters in "The Merchant of Venice"

The play's central character, Antonio, is a successful merchant in Venice, known for his loyalty and willingness to take risks to help his friends. Despite his confident demeanor, he holds onto prejudices against Shylock due to his Jewish identity, making him a relatable character to the audience. Bassanio, on the other hand, shows significant growth and maturity throughout the story as he learns the value of selflessness and true love. Lastly, Shylock's character is a representation of the discrimination faced by Jews in society, and his desire for revenge reveals the consequences of deep-seated bitterness.

Portia, the virtuous and intelligent character, exemplifies true Christian values of forgiveness and mercy through her actions and words. Her assertiveness and quick thinking help save Antonio's life, while her sense of humor adds a touch of wit to the story.

"The Merchant of Venice" Through Notable Quotes and Recurring Themes

William Shakespeare's renowned play, "The Merchant of Venice," explores the complex interplay between financial status, religious bias, and revenge. Through the characters of a Christian merchant, Antonio, and a Jewish moneylender, Shylock, the play sheds light on societal prejudices and the consequences of seeking retribution. Below are some notable quotes and recurring themes that make this play a timeless classic.

Notable Quotes from "The Merchant of Venice"

• Shylock: "I am a Jew. Hath not a Jew eyes? Hath not a Jew hands..." (Act 3, Scene 1)

In this powerful speech, Shylock exposes the discrimination and bigotry faced by Jews in society. He justifies his desire for revenge against Antonio, but his actions cannot be condoned.

• Shylock: "The pound of flesh which I demand of him is dearly bought..." (Act 4, Scene 1)

This quote showcases Shylock's unwavering determination to seek revenge against Antonio. He believes that he has the right to his pound of flesh according to their contract.

• Portia: "It is enthroned in the hearts of kings; It is an attribute to God himself..." (Act 4, Scene 1)

These lines are spoken by Portia in disguise as Balthazar. She emphasizes the importance of mercy and forgiveness in the pursuit of justice, and her actions throughout the play exemplify these virtues.

• Prince of Morocco: "All that glisters is not gold..." (Act 2, Scene 7)

The Prince of Morocco, one of Portia's suitors, falls for the glittering gold casket, which turns out to be false. This quote highlights the theme of deception and the danger of judging others based on superficial appearances.

Recurring Themes in "The Merchant of Venice"

• Religious Prejudice: The play dives into the biases and discrimination faced by Jews in a society dominated by Christians. Shylock is a victim of this prejudice, and his actions are largely influenced by it.
• Mercy: The virtue of mercy is repeatedly emphasized, with characters urging Shylock to show mercy and forgive Antonio's debt. Portia's actions also highlight the importance of mercy and forgiveness in Christian beliefs.

The title of the play, "The Merchant of Venice," speaks to the crucial role that finance and economics play in the story. Antonio's profession as a merchant in Venice sets the stage for the events to unfold, highlighting the significance of financial status in this society. However, the play also delves deeper into themes of religious biases and the importance of mercy.

Set in the Elizabethan Age, "The Merchant of Venice" was written sometime between 1596 and 1597. The play's central theme centers around religious bias and revenge, with Antonio as the titular "merchant" character. Through its plot and characters, the play highlights the dangers of prejudice and the value of mercy and forgiveness.

In summary, "The Merchant of Venice" is a thought-provoking play that delves into human flaws and societal biases. Through its themes and notable quotes, it remains relevant and impactful even today, centuries after its creation.