Notable authors in literary work understand that to keep their piece enticing and not dull, various methods must be employed. One of the more important methods is theme. Frankly, themes are so intrinsically incorporated in literature's the main and sub-plots of that without it, books would be nothing more than an abundance of meaningless of words on sheets of paper. William Shakespeare, for example, utilizes themes as the main component in The Merchant of Venice. The themes William Shakespeare uses hold ulterior messages and morals in which the audience may draw meaning from. From the many themes within The Merchant of Venice, three are most prominent; revenge, prejudice towards minorities, and the inherent corruption of justice.
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To begin, Shylock is used as a medium to project anti-Semitic views/beliefs. Unlike his Christian counterpart (Antonio), Shylock is rarely referred to by his initial name, but rather as - interestingly used a derogatory slur- "the Jew". Clearly, to other Venetians, Shylock is nothing more than the label his society constantly refers to him as. One could only deduce that through this subtle, yet very pejorative, epithet, Shylock would feel like a lesser human being compared to the citizens of Venice. Additionally, Portia, a rich and powerful woman in Venice, exemplifies racism when it comes to the prince of Morocco. After her discussion with Nerissa about the available suitors, Portia's servingman arrives with news of her fifth suitor. Upon hearing about his African descent, she compares his skin color to, "The complexion of the devil." (Shakespeare I.ii.119). Furthermore, she goes to say that even, "If he [Morocco] have the condition of a saint…I had rather he shrive me than wive me." (I.ii.118-120). Therefore, the minorities in The Merchant of Venice, are being regularly prejudiced against by not only commoners, but by the wealthy. Also, a society/government with blatant disregard for its minorities is indubitably bias and in turn, …show more content…
These meanings give us a view on Shakespeare's opinion on the various moral topics which plague human society. Shakespeare leaves his audience with unanswered questions; should revenge be a proper response to hatred? Is the lack of care towards minorities the key to a failing civilization? And lastly, is the term justice subjective and can it be twisted to fulfill evil desires? Perhaps William Shakespeare ambitiously inputs these philosophical questions so that humankind may use them to better society and eradicate the wicked foundations it has been fabricated
An introductory …show more content…
To begin, Shylock is used as a medium to project anti-Semitic views/beliefs. Unlike his Christian counterpart (Antonio), Shylock is rarely referred to by his initial name, but rather as - interestingly used a derogatory slur- "the Jew". Clearly, to other Venetians, Shylock is nothing more than the label his society constantly refers to him as. One could only deduce that through this subtle, yet very pejorative, epithet, Shylock would feel like a lesser human being compared to the citizens of Venice. Additionally, Portia, a rich and powerful woman in Venice, exemplifies racism when it comes to the prince of Morocco. After her discussion with Nerissa about the available suitors, Portia's servingman arrives with news of her fifth suitor. Upon hearing about his African descent, she compares his skin color to, "The complexion of the devil." (Shakespeare I.ii.119). Furthermore, she goes to say that even, "If he [Morocco] have the condition of a saint…I had rather he shrive me than wive me." (I.ii.118-120). Therefore, the minorities in The Merchant of Venice, are being regularly prejudiced against by not only commoners, but by the wealthy. Also, a society/government with blatant disregard for its minorities is indubitably bias and in turn, …show more content…
These meanings give us a view on Shakespeare's opinion on the various moral topics which plague human society. Shakespeare leaves his audience with unanswered questions; should revenge be a proper response to hatred? Is the lack of care towards minorities the key to a failing civilization? And lastly, is the term justice subjective and can it be twisted to fulfill evil desires? Perhaps William Shakespeare ambitiously inputs these philosophical questions so that humankind may use them to better society and eradicate the wicked foundations it has been fabricated