The Merchant of Venice
by William Shakespeare
The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies, but it remains deeply controversial. The text may appear anti-Semitic; but, repeatedly, in performance, he showed an opposite character. Although Shilok is defeated in court, he often triumphs in the theater. In his intensity, he can dominate the game by challenging his romantic and lyrical affirmations. The result is bittersweet drama. The Merchant of Venice presents some of the traditional pleasures of romantic comedy, while also revealing superstitious operations. Thus, Shakespeare remains our contemporary.
