The Merchant Of Venice: Themes

Question 1

Prejudice

Answer 1

Cultural divide, jew expelled in 1290- so audience has little limited interaction, funny back then but questionable now

Question 2

Wealth

Answer 2

Antonio is rich but sad, centre of medeteranian trade routes, jews important, shylocks loan

Question 3

Appearance

Answer 3

Suitors, duke- venetian reputation, disguises, diffrent perspectives- punsihement for shylock good for christians

Question 4

Love

Answer 4

Marriage not about love, jew plus christian forbidden, courtly love, male friendship, clashes with romantic love, family love

Question 5

Justice and mercy

Answer 5

Justice diffrent to other characters, shylocks confidence in law is misplaced, justice not always fufilled, ask for mercy from shylock- dont deliver themselves