shylock villain or victim

I will now look at the reasons as to why Shylock is the victim of this play. As an Elizabethan audience would suddenly conclude that Shylock is a villain, an audience from Britain in the days of the Holocaust would have the greater part saying he’s a victim. However, they proved Shylock Villain Or Victim Thes to be professional on every level. Salarino says to Shylock how different he is compared to his daughter, ‘Jet and Ivory’. Namely, he is vengeful, very materialistic and shrewd. In the Merchant of Venice Shylock is portrayed as both a victim and a villain. hath not a Jew hands, organs, dimensions, senses, affections, passions? Firstly it contains law jargon which is a recurring habit of Shylock. We're here to answer any questions you have about our services. Truthfully, Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice is a brilliant play. The way Shakespeare brings the knife into this is he cleverly uses light relief from a minor character to bring this about. This would build up tension between the two characters and shows Shylock as dark and Jessica as fair. When Salerio asks Shylock what good would Antonio’s flesh do Shylock if Antonio forfeits the bond, he replies, “If it will feed nothing else, it will feed my revenge. Through disassembling each scene in the play he does not show any morsel of mercy ,whereas other characters have tried and I have taken this into consideration. cut throat dog”. Another reason to support the view that Shylock is a victim is in the court scene. Shylock’s diction is short, which is showing his intent to get the trial over an done with, the contemporary audience would see this as vengeful. Our paper writers are able to help you with all kinds of essays, including application essays, persuasive essays, and Shylock Villain Or Victim Thes so on. The utilisation of a rhetorical question has enabled Shylock to communicate indirectly to the audience, which could influence their opinion of him. everybody is treating him unfairly and he feels that to make it fair then he should be aloud to do it too, I feel that this is reasonable . Is Shylock a Villain or Victim? Shakespeare has cleverly carried out this contrast for effect because he wanted to make it clear to the audience who the villain really is. Company Registration No: 4964706. The audience would feel sympathetic towards Jessica as she is alone with Shylock who in the eyes of the audience is portrayed as a monster. “, If he had been treated better by them he may not have wanted to cut of a pound of Antonios flesh of after being offered six times the amount he wanted, “If every ducat in 6 thousand ducats were in 6 parts,and every part a ducat,I would not draw them. Yet in an often forgotten moment when Shylock finds out his daughter traded his wife’s ring for a monkey he cares only for its sentimental value. Lancelot wants to run away from Shylock, his master: I will run as far as God has any ground” which shows deep hatred for Shylock, and leaves him believing that Lancelot is running away because Shylock is treating him badly In Act 2 Scene 3 we see Shylock’s daughter Jessica who does not like her own house, “Our house is hell” “Hell” is a strong word in the play and this image of Shylock recurs throughout the play. Shylock was willing to loan money to one who totally ruined him in public, on terms that were nicer than his normal business terms. Get Your Custom Essay on, By clicking “Write my paper”, you agree to our, By clicking Send Me The Sample you agree on the. Here at the end of the speech I believe the audience would have been silenced as Shylock touches on some sensitive topics. Shylock is in the street by himself, whereas Solanio and Solario are together. The curse never fell upon our nation till now, I never felt it till now. Torture is a powerful word and very horrific, which shows deep desire to get revenge on Antonio. A good example is in Act 3 Scene 1, beginning with line 52: “He hath disgraced me half a million, laughed at my losses, mocked at my gains, scorned my nation, thwarted my bargains, cooled my friends, heated mine enemies… ” -Shylock Shylock had such a magnanimous spirit, that he even offered Antonio, who had abused him terribly, a loan, free of interest. This is obviously not the first evil thing he’s done as other characters make comments on how evil he is including “A stone adversary, an inhuman wrench, uncapable of pity, void and empty, from any dream of mercy. The play is set mainly in Venice, which at the time was the city of trade, and which Shakespeare’s audience would have found exotic. Shylock: Villain or Victim Essay Sample. The choice that the viewer makes by deciding if Shylock is a victim or a villain depends on the background and the time the play is being shown. This is extreme dramatic irony. If we are like you in the rest, we will resemble you in that. Here is evidence of how bitter Shylock has become and the tone in which he would say it would be sarcastic. He could have pardoned Antonio and shown himself to be morally superior – but would this have done him any good in the long run? The imagery is revolting. Definitely coming back with another assignment! I also think though,that Shylock is a villain as he explains in the play that he will not take any form of money,he just wants to kill Antonio which is a very evil thing to say. ...Shylock is a villain, because he denied twice the sum of the bond (6,000 ducats) so that he could attempt to kill Antonio. Throughout the play he is mocked and dehumanized (in the entire play, his name is mentioned by characters thrice; anytime else he is “the Jew,” or similar. By Shakespeare . Back in the days, Jews were strongly disgraced because of their religion. Shylock has been called a dog, an insult for a Jew, “…. Shylock is malevolent to his servant Lancelot and extremely commanding: “I do not bid thee call” “Do as I bid” The way that Shylock said this was in a mean manner and is harsh towards Lancelot. The Merchant of Venice June 8th, 2011 In the play The Merchant of Venice Shylock is supposed to be the protagonist, the definition of protagonist is; the leading character or a major character in a drama, movie, novel, or other fictional text. In addition, Jessica is taking all Shylock’s wealth and money is a big theme of the play, which Shakespeare exploits here. This provokes him into craving his bond and truly becoming villainous. Shakespeare’s purpose here is to show the audience what Shylock’s own blood and flesh thinks of him, evidently deep loathing. But is he really a victim or a villain? Throughout the play: The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare juggles with the idea of Shylock being either a villain or a victim. At this juncture the audience would have commiseration for Shylock because the contrast of how he is treated compared with Antonio, here Shylock is seen as a victim. The dictionary defines a villain as “a cruelly malicious person” and a victim as “a person who is deceived or cheated”. At this time people believed in the chain of being which was a hierarchy of beings. The word “bond” is a key word used consistently through the play especially by Shylock. During the court scene, it is astonishing how Bassanio manages to insult Shylock, “cruel devil” This is a recurrent motif throughout the play but what is important about the timing of this insult is that it is in a court room which is supposed to be fair to all parties. In early productions of The Merchant of Venice, actors played Shylock as either a monster or an evil clown, enforcing the idea that he is the villain of the play. Shakespeare sets up numerous cases of Shylock being victimized than those previously stated. So, why does he make such a strange agreement with Antonio, asking for a pound of Antonio’s flesh instead of interest if the loan is not repaid within the arranged time? Shakespeare’s intention here is to show how Shylock constantly wants to be in control, but as we see later in the play this is not always the case. Shakespeare’s language here is purposeful as he has used rhyming couplets for dramatic effect and also to stress the importance of these words. Unfortunately, at the time of the play it was common for Jewish people to be insulted in this way. Shakespeare makes Shylock ruthless and cold in this act, which makes us think he truly is the villain of this play. Shakespeare intends this as he gives Shylock emotive speeches about inequality, which contradicts Shylock as being a villain. If you need this or any other sample, we can send it to you via email. Shylock is clearly portrayed here as the villain as he is refusing every offer Bassanio is throwing at him. ” I will buy with you, sell with you, talk with you, walk with you, and so following; but I will not eat with you, drink with you, nor pray with you. Essay, Use multiple resourses when assembling your essay, Get help form professional writers when not sure you can do it yourself, Use Plagiarism Checker to double check your essay, Do not copy and paste free to download essays. In Act 3 Scene 3, Antonio has been arrested. Maria Johnson. Shakespeare has cleverly written this sentence so that every word, bar, Christian has one syllable whereas the word Christian has two. Shylock is introduced into the plot of ‘The Merchant of Venice’ by Antonio and Bassanio. The way this phrase is constructed is very interesting and typical of Shakespeare. In addition, Jessica is taking all Shylock’s wealth and money is a big theme of the play, which Shakespeare exploits here. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of UKEssays.com. Shylock, with Antonio is the major character in the play, at times referred to as a villain and sometimes a victim. Take Antonio and Shylock for example. Shylock is begged by everyone to show Antonio mercy. He is vengeful, materialistic and shrewd. Shylock admittedly says he hates Christians, which is very racist: “I hate him for he is Christian” Clearly this language shows that Shylock is prejudiced and this quotation would shock the contemporary audience, as they would be predominantly Christian. Copyright © 2003 - 2021 - UKEssays is a trading name of All Answers Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales. During the court scene, it is astonishing how Bassanio manages to insult Shylock, “cruel devil” This is a recurrent motif throughout the play but what is important about the timing of this insult is that it is in a court room which is supposed to be fair to all parties. A “cut throat dog” suggests death and execution which would make the audience shiver. The themes of the play are revenge, mercy, and justice. Shylock’s response to this was extremely important. He also makes a religious joke at Shylock’s expense. The audience would feel sympathetic towards Jessica as she is alone with Shylock who in the eyes of the audience is portrayed as a monster. The word “bond” is powerful language of the law and portrays Shylock as a dignified human being. The fact that the Duke addresses him as “thee”, is quite significant as “thee” is used intimately. Caught out by Portia, by the end of the trial he has lost all his money and has to suffer the humiliation of being forced to become a Christian. your own paper. Certainly after World War II there is a more sympathetic view towards Shylock, comparative to the 1500’s where the majority of the audience would have been against Shylock regardless of the abuse he has to tolerate during the play. In the film, Shylock especially in the court scene is portrayed as a villain as the director shows him lurking in the background as if he is drawing up a plan in the court scene. This adds to Shylock’s vulnerability as he is alone with no friends and friendship is a vital theme of the play. Discusses whether he was subjected to problems at the time, or if he caused problems for other people. Shylock, Villain or victim? If a Christian wrong a Jew, what should his sufferance be by Christian example? This adds to Shylock’s vulnerability as he is alone with no friends and friendship is a vital theme of the play. “The Merchant of Venice” is one of Shakespeare’s most well known comedies and was written in the late 1590’s. Which is the greater love, Shylock’s love for his daughter or his love of money??? The word “bond” is a key word used consistently through the play especially by Shylock. A diamond gone cost me two thousand ducats in Frankfurt! Paper Outline. When Tubal brings news of Jessica to Shylock, Shylock says “Two thousand ducats in that, and other precious, precious jewels! The play is set mainly in Venice, which at the time was the city of trade, and which Shakespeare’s audience would have found exotic. Two thousand ducats in that and other precious,, jewels! Whereas Antonio’s language is noticeably simple and the audience would look at this, “I do”.This is significant because he knows that the end is approaching, so the audience would feel for Antonio because they know that Shylock is eager to kill him. Evidently, this shows that Shylock does not want justice but revenge and the audience would see that clearly. Free resources to assist you with your university studies! In the following paragraphs, it will be shown that Shylock is a villain in every sense of the word. “forfeit”, “sworn”, “cat” and “rat”. Additionally in Act 2 Scene 2 we see an insight into Shylock’s domestic life from his servant Lancelot: Shakespeare has cleverly included Lancelot in this scene so the audience can get a perspective of what Shylock the man is really like. Shylock is both a villain and a victim in The Merchant of Venice. In the Elizabethan times, quotes like “ I hate him for he is a Christian”, would have provoked the audience. At this time, Jews were treated very badly and were frequently excluded by their community. This is why Shylock would have been regarded as a villain as well during this era. “and what’s his reason? After his speech Shylock becomes intrigued when he hears news that Antonio’s ships are sinking, “I’ll torture him”. In the film, the court scene is incredibly well directed because as in the play, there is a hostile reception for Shylock and he is constantly being jeered at. The audience would not enjoy Shylock attaining power especially over Bassanio , who is a Christian. Evidently, Shylock is repetitive and he is controlling the dialogue. Shylock, with Antonio is the major character in the play, at times referred to as a villain and sometimes a victim. He is approached by them when they are in search of money. He is a victim of his religion, and a victim of his greed and overwhelming need for revenge. If a Jew wrong a Christian, what is his humility? This would have an inducing effect on the audience because this phrase would leave them to answer this question in their own mind. All work is written to order. He is arguing for common humanity as he feels alienated and vulnerable. Shylock endured much of Antonio’s abuse, overt a long period of time. Therefore when he calls Shylock a devil the audience knows that Lancelot does not have any respect for him. Namely, he is vengeful, very materialistic and shrewd. But the way Shylock is portrayed is … Shylock: villain or victim. I think Shylock is a victim because throughout his life he has been treated badly but just because Antonio has hurt him and Shylock doesn’t want him to do it again, we know this because he says, “wouldst thou have a serpent sting him twice? The imagery created is extremely efficacious because Shylock has an extremely valid point and has divulged this with a rhetorical question. In the above essay, I have clearly shown that Shylock is a villain. Disclaimer: This is an example of a student written essay.Click here for sample essays written by our professional writers. Is shylock a victim or a villain essay - romeo and juliet literary analysis essay. My paper on history has never been so good. “this shows antonio mistreets shylock for no real reason exept his religion. These words are significant because they show his passion for revenge. … Shylock is definitely the most villainous character in the play, and only a few elements can show him as a victim overall, even then, his victimisation only seems to be a consequence of his own actions. Next, Shylock is very materialistic. 592 completed orders . Shylock repeats himself for revenge again and has many horrific ideas such as the “pound of flesh”. We use the most reliable Shylock Villain Or Victim Essay plagiarism detecting software to check your papers! In court after Shylock loses his case, part of his punishment as well as monetary Owings is to become Christian. The main reason for this is because of the enormous amount of Jews killed in this period, for committing no offence whatsoever. His great respect for law and order are shown in the following quotes from Act 4 Scene. In Elizabethan times he would have been seen as more of a villain due to the fact he was jewish however a modern day audience can empathise with his … This is quite ironic how Shylock was fussy about details about the “pound of flesh” but not when Antonio’s life is the issue. ” He goes to far because he believes that the pound of flesh belongs to him, even when the duke said that this was going to far. Through a more careful examination it can be determined that Shylock was an upstanding member of his community, who endured abuse, forgave easily, and upheld the customs and law. Shylock only seems to remember the bloody details of his bond, “I cannot find it”. In conclusion Shylock is interpreted as an unfortunate victim but also as a vindictive villain. However the question still remains: Shylock victim or villain? He knows that the Venetian justice system will have to support him and so relishes beating Antonio at his own game. In The Merchant of Venice, Shylock does not have the biggest role in the play but he is the character that everyone remembers. Examples: Shylock is persecuted by the Christians in Venice, because he is a Jew. In conclusion, through analysing the play, in my opinion I believe Shylock is a villain for various reasons. Shylock’s speech is in prose which makes it clear and it is from the heart. Shylock also does not like how there is a big difference between Jews and Christians: ‘If you prick us do we not bleed’ Shylock has a lot of anger in him and has expressed himself very emotionally here. If it is a long quotation, you miss a line and indent. “If I am dog beware my fangs”. Shakespeare has cleverly included Lancelot in this scene so the audience can get a perspective of what Shylock the man is really like. Act 3 Scene 1 was set in Venice, which was the place of business. In case you can’t find a sample example, our professional writers are ready to help you with writing Study for free with our range of university lectures! I am not bid for love. Pete, USA. Revenge. The Duke shows deep emotion for Antonio at the start, he refers to Antonio as “thee”. He is thrilled to hear that another of Antonio’s ships is lost, making Antonio more vulnerable. if you tickle us, do we not laugh? Shylock is the main Jewish character in the Merchant of Venice who is often treated unfairly by Christians. He often speaks prose in the play, which marks him out as an outsider. Furthermore, whenever Shylock talks to either Bassanio or Antonio, he rarely uses gracious language. At this point, Shylock is basically defined as a villain, but because he is constantly ridiculed and humiliated by Antonio his revenge could be understood somewhat. The way this phrase is constructed is very interesting and typical of Shakespeare. On the other hand shylock is also shown as a villian because he then admits he hates antonio which is why he wants this contract fulfilled. and if you wrong us, shall we not revenge? In the next scene Lorenzo compares Shylock to his daughter and evidently shows more lovingness towards Jessica and disrespect to Shylock: “If e’r the Jew her father come to heaven, it will be for his gentle daughter’s sake” We can see here how there is a contrast in the language used when referring to Jessica and Shylock. I am a Jew. The language is monosyllabic but awfully potent. Further on in the Act Shylock is really eager, that he has bought his own scales to measure the “pound of flesh”, “I have them ready”. He clearly seeks to kill Antonio by taking a pound of his flesh. He is Jessica’s father. If you need assistance with writing your essay, our professional essay writing service is here to help! At the end of The Merchant of Venice, Shylock has been both a victim and a villain. O my daughter! We will happily write your homework even with 3 hrs. Firstly, Shylock is extremely vengeful. Firstly Lorenzo addresses Shylock as “Jew’ which is prejudiced, whereas he uses words such as “heaven” and “gentle” to portray Jessica. He also makes a religious joke at Shylock’s expense. In Act 2 Scene 3 we see Shylock’s daughter Jessica who does not like her own house, “Our house is hell” “Hell” is a strong word in the play and this image of Shylock recurs throughout the play. ” . I think Shylock is a victim as he is abused by the christians in Venice. This is a powerful monologue for the audience who want salvation. Firstly Lorenzo addresses Shylock as “Jew’ which is prejudiced, whereas he uses words such as “heaven” and “gentle” to portray Jessica. Shakespeare uses an oxymoron to portray the contrast between them, which creates images in the audience’s heads which some may find funny an others ironic. We never find out what happens to him. Even though Shylock refuses 6 times the original amount; ” if every ducat in six thousand ducats, were in six parts and every part a ducat, i would not draw them “, I still feel he is a victim as he has put up with a lifetime of abuse. Throughout the play, Shylock is portrayed as many things, both victim and villain, therefore making him an extremely ambiguous character. Shakespeare’s language here is purposeful as he has used rhyming couplets for dramatic effect and also to stress the importance of these words. But the way Shylock is portrayed is more along the lines of being both victim and villain. So this could infer how he likes his money more than his daughter. This is my favorite play of all time the quote u are asking for comes form act 3 scene 1 and it states:”To bait fish withal: if it will feed nothing else, it will feed my revenge. We've received widespread press coverage since 2003, Your UKEssays purchase is secure and we're rated 4.4/5 on reviews.co.uk. In context Lancelot should respect his master not deceive him.