I think that Shakespeare wanted to show the theme of Anti-Semitism which is the hate for Jews. In the Merchant of Venice, Shylock was often discriminated by Antonio. Antonio would usually spit on Shylock and call him a “cut-throat dog”. I feel that this really reflects how Antonio, who is a Christian, despises Shylock, who is a Jew. Also, his servant Launcelot and his daughter, Jessica all abandoned him. I feel that Shylock is very pitiful as he has to tolerate all these discriminating acts and also a loss of his only child, Jessica. Furthermore, when Antonio could not return the sum of money which he borrowed from Shylock, he got Bassino’s wife, Portia to act as a judge to help out Antonio. In conclusion, I feel that it is through these events that Shakespeare reveals the Anti-Semitism theme to the audience.
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