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The Merchant Of Venice
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The Merchant Of Venice
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most problematic plays, largely because of what is seen as its inherent anti-semitism. At the centre of the play is one of the most famous anti-heroes in Shakespeare: Shylock 'the Jew'. How to interpret Shylock baffles critics as they divide on whether Shakespeare is prejudiced or sympathetic.
The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most problematic plays, largely because of what is seen as its inherent anti-semitism. At the centre of the play is one of the most famous anti-heroes in Shakespeare: Shylock 'the Jew'. How to interpret Shylock baffles critics as they divide on whether Shakespeare is prejudiced or sympathetic.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
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Description
The Merchant of Venice is perhaps most associated not with its titular hero, Antonio, but with the complex figure of the money lender, Shylock. The play was described as a comedy in the First Folio, but modern audiences find it more problematic to categorise. The vilification of Shylock 'the Jew' can be very uncomfortable for a post-Holocaust audience, and debates continue as to whether Shakespeare's portrayal of this complex man is sympathetic or anti-Semitic.
John Drakakis' comprehensive introduction traces the stage history of the figure of the Jew and looks boldly at twenty-first century issues surrounding it. He also explores other themes of the play, such as father-daughter relations, the power of money, and the forceful character of Portia, to offer readers an energetic, original, and revelatory reading of this challenging play.
Series: The Arden Shakespeare Third Series
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The Merchant Of Venice
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare weaves themes of justice, mercy and revenge, with a compelling examination of anti-Semitism through the character Shylock. Reviewers often praise its complex characterisation and dramatic tension, while acknowledging its challenging themes that continue to provoke discussion. Its rich language and exploration of human nature have cemented it as a timeless piece in literature, inviting both admiration and controversy.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781903436813
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 06 February 2011
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: The Arden Shakespeare
Illustration: 20 in Introduction
Contributors:
- Edited by Professor John Drakakis
Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 26.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 495g
Pages: 480
About the Author
John Drakakis is Professor of English Studies at the University of Stirling, Scotland.
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