What makes The Merchant of Venice a problem play?
Having three subplots woven into a major plot that revolves around the money lender Jew, Shylock, the play presents a highly complex plot of racial hatred, ethnic prejudice, love and honesty, and financial manipulation.
Is The Merchant of Venice a problem play?
“The Merchant of Venice,” Shakespeare’s odd comedy with a dark streak, often is called a “problem play.” It’s also somewhat problematic. The Houston Shakespeare Festival’s current production is an interesting, albeit variable treatment that holds the stage. … Shakespearean plots often turn on one very unlikely point.
What are the social issues in The Merchant of Venice?
The Merchant of Venice Themes
- Prejudice and Intolerance. The Venetians in The Merchant of Venice almost uniformly express extreme intolerance of Shylock and the other Jews in Venice. …
- Human and Animal. …
- Law, Mercy, and Revenge. …
- Greed vs. …
- Reading and Interpretation. …
- Love and Friendship.
How is the conflict resolved in The Merchant of Venice?
The conflict is ultimately resolved in Antonio’s favour when the villain is undone by his own treachery. Portia points out that if he takes a single drop of Antonio’s blood he will loose everything; because, this is not part of the bond. Shylock is ”hoist by his own petard”.
Is Shylock a villain or a victim?
Shylock is a combination of both victim and villain in The Merchant of Venice. He is a victim of discrimination and mistreated by Antonio and his daughter, Jessica. Shylock’s greedy, vengeful nature is what makes him a villain, which helps drive the plot of the play.
What is the climax of Merchant of Venice?
The climax of the play is set in the court of the Duke of Venice. Shylock refuses Bassanio’s offer of 6,000 ducats, twice the amount of the loan. He demands his pound of flesh from Antonio. … Thus, if Shylock were to shed any drop of Antonio’s blood, his “lands and goods” would be forfeited under Venetian laws.
Why Merchant of Venice is a romantic comedy?
Merchant of Venice is one of the most popular romantic comedies. It is a comedy since it embodies the theme: no one dies and there is a happy ending to the play. Though it has some dark moments as it develops, there are humorous moments that intersperse the play.
Who is the father of problem play?
The problem play reached its maturity in the works of the Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, whose works had artistic merit as well as topical relevance.
What is the plot of Merchant of Venice?
The major conflict driving the plot of The Merchant of Venice takes place between Bassanio, who wants to marry Portia to gain the financial means to pay back his debt to Antonio, and Shylock, who wants revenge on Antonio for lending money without interest and for his anti-Semitic insults.
What is the main message of Merchant of Venice?
The main theme of The Merchant of Venice is the conflict between self interest and love. On the surface level, the major difference between Shylock the Jew and the Christian characters of the play is their level of compassion.
What is the moral of Merchant of Venice?
The Merchant of Venice teaches us that we need financial means to support our family and live a comfortable lifestyle. At the same time, financial decisions must not be taken hastily, especially if you want to secure your family`s financial future and grow your wealth.
Did Bassanio really love Portia?
Bassanio explains that he is in love with Portia and needs a loan to show his wealth and power to her. Even though Antonio has no money to give to Bassanio, he still promises to guarantee any loan Bassanio can find.
What are the 4 main plot in The Merchant of Venice?
All four plots are bound by the threads of love, generosity, friendship, and the wise use of money, which are the ideals of the Elizabethan society. The plots are also reflective of one another. Antonio’s love for Bassanio is reflected in Bassanio’s love for Portia.
Why does Shylock hate Antonio?
Shylock hates Antonio because Antonio has the privilege of being a wealthy Venetian who charges no interest on his loans, and he also hates Antonio for being a Christian. … Antonio not only loans money interest-free to many, he has also covered the loans of Shylock’s victims without charging them interest to repay him.
Is justice served in the Merchant of Venice?
Justice is indeed served at the end of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice.