ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -The play opens with the character Machiavel, a Senecan ghost based on Niccolò Machiavelli, introducing “the tragedy of a Jew.” Machiavel expresses the cynical view that power is amoral, saying “I count religion but a childish toy, / And hold there is no sin but ignorance."

Detailed explanation-2: -The Prologue satirizes Machiavelli’s theory of statecraft as the narrator holds religion to a “childish toy” and regards ignorance as the only sin. Machevill notes that Barabas “favors” him, which could mean that Barabas either resembles Machiavelli or advocates his tactics.

Detailed explanation-3: -I have as much coin as will buy the town.” “I count religion but a childish toy, And hold there is no sin but ignorance.” “For whilst I live, here lives my soul’s sole hope, And when I die, here shall my spirit walk.”

Detailed explanation-4: -Thus the plot of The Jew of Malta is the story of how Barabas was wronged by the Catholic governor and so vows revenge upon the entire city, even sacrificing his own daughter. But the theme is that of greed, corruption, and religious depravity.