The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare. Written approximately 1596–1598. Studied at KS3 and GCSE.
The most complex character in the play — and one of Shakespeare's most debated. He is treated with contempt by the Venetian Christians and responds with bitter resentment. His 'Hath not a Jew eyes?' speech claims a common humanity that the play simultaneously grants and denies.
Intelligent, witty and resourceful. She solves the crisis Antonio cannot solve and does so in disguise as a man. Her mercy speech is one of the most famous in Shakespeare.
The merchant whose friendship with Bassanio drives the plot. His willingness to accept such a dangerous bond reflects his confidence — and perhaps fatalism.
Likeable but financially irresponsible — he has already spent a fortune before asking Antonio for more. He chooses correctly because he reasons well rather than being swayed by appearances.
Shylock's daughter, who elopes with Lorenzo and converts to Christianity. Her departure and theft from Shylock intensifies his grievance.
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