The Merchant of Venice

William Shakespeare, John Drakakis

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English

Arden Shakespeare
14 April 2011

Literature, Poetry & Criticism; Shakespeare studies & criticism

Series: Arden Shakespeare

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 its 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.

By: William Shakespeare
Edited by: John Drakakis
Imprint: Arden Shakespeare
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 198mm, Width: 129mm, Spine: 25mm
Weight: 510g
ISBN: 9781903436813
ISBN 10: 1903436818
Series: Arden Shakespeare
Pages: 480
Publication Date: 14 April 2011
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

John Drakakis is Professor of English Studies at the University of Stirling, Scotland.