Is Shylock a villain or victim who deserves our sympathy?

The first 200 words of this essay...

Sarah Mahm Kahn 11SK

Is Shylock a villain or victim who deserves our sympathy?

The Shakespeare play in which the character Shylock is based, is called 'The Merchant of Venice'.

Shylock was a Jew, who was a moneylender (usurer). He was portrayed as a villain in the play. He was disliked by Christians because he charged interest and followed Judaism. Therefore Jews did not get on well with Christians and Christians did not get on well with Jews. Shylock's hate for Christians was only caused because of their hate for Jews. He is discriminated against because of his religion. And lending money, then charging interest, is his way of making profit.

Antonio, who is a Christian, comes to borrow money from Shylock. He is borrowing money for his dear friend Bassanio and is not keen on asking from Shylock. However, Shylock takes advantage of this situation and keeps reminding Antonio that he is in charge.

"Ay, ay, three thousand ducats"-

Shylock is seen pondering the amount of the loan. I think it was a normal reaction, to taunt Antonio because Shylock would never have expected him to ask for