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 cannot overlook: “He lends out money gratis and brings…
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