The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare Background

The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare

Background to the Play n n Shakespeare wrote this play in 1596 or 1597. In Shakespeare’s time The Merchant of Venice was regarded as a comedy; however, modern audiences see elements of tragedy as well.

Jewish History in Europe n n n King Edward I of England had persecuted and expelled the Jews in 1290. From the 13 th century on, Jews were expelled in countries all over Europe. Shakespeare cannot have known a great deal about the Jewish community.

Jewish History in Venice n n By 1509 Venice, Italy allowed Jews to build a community within the city. However, Jews were restricted by strict laws limiting property ownership, commerce, and social life.

The Setting -- Venice is the world of reality. n Venice was the international hub of sea-faring trade and commerce during the Renaissance. n Venice means business -- all scenes in Venice involve trade, money, and striking deals. n

The Rialto Bridge

The Setting – Belmont Island Belmont is a fictional island. n It represents the green world of nature, fantasy, and love. n Characters escape the reality of Venice when they go to Belmont. n

Plots the bond plot n the casket plot the elopement plot n the ring plot n n

Thematic Topics love and money n justice and mercy n anti-Semitism and tolerance n villainy and heroism n appearance and reality n comedy and tragedy n