Theme: Prejudice

Introduction to the Theme

Prejudice is central to the narrative in William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice, profoundly influencing the interactions between characters and the development of the plot. This theme explores the deeply ingrained prejudices of race, religion, and gender, highlighting their impact on individual destinies and societal dynamics within the play.

By examining these prejudices, Shakespeare critiques the societal norms of his time and invites the audience to reflect on the moral complexities associated with bias and discrimination.

Detailed Analysis

Act 1, Scene 3 - Shylock and Antonio's Contract

• Setting and Characters:
  • This scene takes place in a public area in Venice, featuring Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, and Antonio, a Christian merchant.
• Instances of Prejudice:
  • In this encounter, Antonio openly admits to having previously insulted Shylock, spitting on him and calling him a dog based on his Jewish faith and his profession as a usurer.
• Consequences:
  • This blatant display of religious prejudice directly influences Shylock's decision to propose the harsh bond of a pound of flesh, setting up a central conflict that drives much of the play's dramatic tension.

Act 2, Scene 5 - Jessica's Escape

• Setting and Characters:
  • The scene unfolds at Shylock's home and involves his daughter Jessica.
• Instances of Prejudice:
  • Shylock's strict and controlling behaviour towards Jessica reflects not only his personal views but also broader cultural prejudices regarding the roles and autonomy of women.
• Consequences:
  • Jessica's decision to elope and convert to Christianity can be seen as a rebellion against both the paternal and societal constraints imposed on her, driven by her desire for personal and religious freedom.

Act 4, Scene 1 - The Trial Scene

• Setting and Characters:
  • This critical scene occurs in a Venetian court, involving significant characters such as Shylock, Antonio, and Portia, who is disguised as a male lawyer.
• Instances of Prejudice:
  • During the trial, the Duke and others exhibit a clear bias against Shylock, sympathizing openly with Antonio. Even Portia's famous plea for mercy subtly underscores prevalent Christian prejudices against Jews.
• Consequences:
  • The trial concludes with Shylock being forced to convert to Christianity, which underscores the severe impact of societal prejudices and the harsh realities faced by those who are marginalized.

Supporting Quotes

• "You call me misbeliever, cut-throat dog, And spit upon my Jewish gaberdine" (Act 1, Scene 3). This quote by Shylock highlights the religious prejudice he endures, illustrating how such bigotry shapes interpersonal relationships and personal grievances within the play.
• "I am glad 'tis night, you do not look on me, For I am much ashamed of my exchange" (Act 2, Scene 6). Jessica's use of this quote reflects her internal conflict and shame associated with her gender and religious disguise, pointing to the gender prejudices that constrain her actions and self-perception.

Characters' Perspectives

• Shylock: He experiences profound religious prejudice that shapes his vengeful demeanour and explains his harsh actions against Antonio, providing a complex portrayal of a man who is both a victim and a perpetrator of hate.
• Antonio: Despite being a protagonist, Antonio exhibits religious prejudice that complicates his character, illustrating that even the morally upright are not immune to societal biases.
• Portia: Although gender norms constrain her, Portia manipulates these limitations to her advantage, disguising herself as a man to participate in the legal sphere, thereby subtly challenging the gender prejudices of her time.

Conclusion

Prejudice significantly influences the narrative and moral discourse of The Merchant of Venice. Through his portrayal of racial, religious, and gender biases, Shakespeare critiques the pernicious effects of prejudice on individuals and society.

This theme reflects the historical context of Elizabethan England and remains poignantly relevant today. It urges contemporary audiences to reflect on the enduring nature of prejudice and its implications for justice and human rights.