The Merchant of Venice » International Youth Theater Network

William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice

Monday, February 25th, 2008

Historians speculate that “The Merchant of Venice” was created by William Shakespeare some time between 1596 and 1598. Although this play is considered a comedy, some elements of its plot have led critics to classify it as a romantic comedy. As one of the Bard’s well-known plays, this had been adapted into several television movies.

“The Merchant of Venice” is classified as one of Shakespeare’s “problem plays.” Unlike his other plays, the most prominent figure in this story is not the title character, Antonio. Rather, the spotlight is on Shylock, the Jewish moneylender and the play’s main antagonist. This was considered a problem play because it is up to the audience to decide whether they should sympathize or feel disdain for Shylock. Determining whether this character is the tormentor or the tormented will depend largely on the interpretation of the director and the actors. Some actors presented the character of Shylock as a man who wants to exact revenge. Others present him as a man whose actions are dictated by his pride. As pointed out by many, it is but normal that Shylock should feel hatred for Antonio since the week previously, the latter spat on his face and insulted him for being a Jew.

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