Shylock and The Merchant of Venice
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Famous Character:
Shylock – a Jewish moneylender, is a central character in William Shakespeare’s play The Merchant of Venice.
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The Merchant of Venice:
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Genre: Comedy (Tragi-comedy)
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Written: 1596–1597
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First Published: 1600 (Quarto edition)
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Plot: Focuses on the contract between Antonio, a Venetian merchant, and Shylock, the Jewish moneylender, and its consequences. The play explores themes of mercy, justice, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships.
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Important Characters:
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Famous Quotations from the Play:
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“All that glisters is not gold.”
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“The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.”
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“It is a wise father that knows his own child.”
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“Love is blind, and lovers cannot see the pretty follies that themselves commit.”
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William Shakespeare (1564–1616):
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Birthplace: Stratford-upon-Avon, England → called Bard of Avon or Swan of Avon.
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Renowned as English national poet, dramatist, and actor.
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Wrote 154 sonnets and 37 plays.
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Co-founded the Globe Theatre in London in 1599.
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Notable Comedies/Tragi-comedies by Shakespeare:
Shylock remains one of Shakespeare’s most complex and debated characters, embodying themes of justice, prejudice, and human vulnerability.