Shylock-
A Jewish moneylender in Venice. Angered by his mistreatment at the hands of Venice’s Christians, particularly the merchant Antonio, Shylock schemes to get revenge by ruthlessly demanding a pound of Antonio’s flesh as penalty for Antonio’s defaulting on a loan. The Christian characters in the play regard Shylock as an inhuman monster, frequently mocking him for being obsessed with money.
Salanio/Salarino-Venetian gentlemen/friends of Antonio
Answer the following questions in your group using textual evidence as support:
1. What words do Salarino and Salanio use to describe Shylock? What does this lead you to infer their feelings are towards him?
2. What has happened between Shylock and his daughter? (read through to the end before you answer)
3. What does Salarino say is the difference between Shylock and his daughter?
4. What is Shylock's argument against Antonio? Why should he take his flesh even if it doesn't make sense?
5. What rhetorical questions does Shylock ask? What is his purpose in stating these questions?
6. What is the double-standard he says exists between Jews and Christians?
7. How do you feel about the character of Shylock and his situation after reading this passage? Do you think he is a sympathetic or contemptible character?
If you are having a really hard time:
Modern English version
info from: http://nfs.sparknotes.com/merchant/
youtube clip
ADD ON FOR TODAY:
Continuation: The trial/verdict
What do you think about the verdict?
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