"Shylock is arguably Shakespeare's most evil creation"

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"Shylock is arguably Shakespeare's most evil creation"

In the light of this statement do you condemn or pity Shylock, comment on the dramatic effectiveness of this character.

Although there are various sub plots in the Merchant of Venice, Shylock plays a very central role, interacting with almost all of the other characters to some degree.

I believe that Shakespeare has carefully crafted the character of Shylock in great detail. He makes Shylock both a Jew and a money lender, both of these things were despised by many Christians at the time this was written. Shylock is introduced to the audience as a controversial character. All his traits and characteristics are very deliberate.

The character of Shylock is frequently used by Shakespeare to build sympathy from the audience, which he quickly removes again. This helps to keep the audience thinking about him and it helps to keep the audience interested in the plot.

Shylock first appears as a cautious business man who lets us know how badly he has been treated by Antonio, but we become aware that there is also professional rivalry between the two.
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When we first hear of Jessica leaving, we are told by Solanio. The situation is bad for Shylock, he has lost his daughter, some money, some jewels and all to a Christian, we should feel a great deal of pity for Shylock at this point, but Shakespeare avoids this by not having Shylock present on stage at this point and by having Solanio make light of the situation, implying that his grief for his ducats may even surpass his grief for his daughter.

"My daughter! O my ducats! O my daughter!

Fled with a Christian! ...

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