ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Shylock is a Jewish moneylender in Venice. He is unpopular with other characters who accuse him of practising usury. This means lending money with outrageously high rates of interest . The merchants, such as Antonio, curse and spit at Shylock because they believe this way of making money is immoral.

Detailed explanation-2: -Shylock is as likely a candidate as Portia to fill the role of the play’s protagonist. He drives the other characters to act the way they do. He enables the subplot of Bassanio’s courting of Portia. And the buildup of the story is entirely focused on what will be done with Antonio’s debt to him.

Detailed explanation-3: -Even though Shylock is a villain, he does have a couple of redeeming qualities. He is a champion of his race. He speaks eloquently and convincingly about the injustice which the Jews have always suffered at the hands of the Christians.

Detailed explanation-4: -Shylock is firm and adamant on his decision to take nothing but the penalty. His motive is to take revenge from his enemy and show the strength of his character that nothing can prevent him from his purpose. Was this answer helpful?

Detailed explanation-5: -Shylock is portrayed as a dynamic and clever character. He is cruel malicious and revengeful. He is a strong and independent character. He is a greedy moneylender but he does not reflect the jewish character in general.