(and perhaps the play itself) was likely molded under the influence of history, and by the traditional roles that Jews played in the theater that preceded him.
Shylock’s character is introduced as a stereotypical, money-hungry Jewish usurer, who hates Antonio because “he is Christian” (1.3.43). This, of course, pandered to the prejudices of the audiences and supports the argument for the play being anti-Semitic. Shylock, however, offers a valid reason for hating Antonio, a reason that even Christians…
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