The Merchant of Venic莎翁著名喜剧《威尼斯商人》简介.pptVIP

* T h e M e r c h a n t o f V e n i c e By Zhang Xuan Icy The Merchant of Venice Background Characteristic and the relationship Brief introduction Analysis of the main characters My opinions The Background Theatrical Traditions of Jews Roots of Shakespearean drama begin with mystery and miracle plays of the Middle Ages, which were performed by the church for a largely illiterate audience about Old and New Testament （《新旧约全书》）stories. Jews were often viewed as responsible for Christ’s crucifixion(苦难). Jews became the evil villains(反面角色) of Elizabethan drama. They were one-dimensional(肤浅的，单面的) stereotypical characters. Given the anti-Jewish climate in Elizabethan England and Shakespeare’s Portrayal of Shylock as a negative stereotype, it would be reasonable to assume Shakespeare was an Anti-Semite. After reading the whole play, you may find that it may be wrong. Characteristic and the relationship Antonio Shylock Portia Bassanio hate help love punish Shylock: hates Antonio very much. Antonio often lent money to others without charging the interest Shylock demanded. Bassinio as well as his friends, Antonio and Lorenzo planned a feast and a masque to invited Shylock to be his guest; helped Lorenzo run off with Shylock’s daughter, Jessica and take part of the Jew’s fortune. Antonio didn’t respect Shylock at all. (lines) Bassinio: a handsome man, wanted to marry Portia. But he had no money, so he went to his best friend, Antonio for help. Luckily, he chose the right casket and married Portia. Portia: a wealthy young lady, who was famous for her beauty. Many people wanted to marry her. But according to her father’s will, she had to marry the person who chose the correct one from the gold, silver and the lead caskets. Other relationships The Moor The Prince of Arragon Bassanio Lorenzo ﹠ Jessica Gratiano ﹠ Nerissa Brief Introduction Four contrasts in the play: Jew against Christian Love against hate Usury