Abstract:This study aims to analyze Shylock’s dual characters and the causes and significance of  the creation of Shylock. After a brief introduction to Shakespeare and the play, the essay focuses onShylock’sdual characters. On one hand, Shylock is a mean moneylender and an atrocious avenger. On the other hand, he is a diligent merchant and a good father, as well as a righteous representative of Jewish Race. Then the essay analyzes the realism and significance in the characterization of Shylock from the perspectives of religion, economy and politics. The paper concludes that Shylock actually is a victim of racial and religious discrimination and the society of his time is responsible for his tragedy.

Key words: Shylock; Merchant of Venice; Shakespeare; Jew

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction1

1.1 Introduction to Shakespeare

1.2 Introduction to The Merchant of Venice

2.Analysis of the Characterization of Shylock2

2.1 Shylock’s Dual Characters

2.1.1 The Vicious Aspects of Shylock

2.1.2 The Good Aspects of Shylock

2.2 Realism in the Characterization of Shylock 

2.2.1 A Reflection of British Politics

    2.2.2 A Reflection of British Economy

    2.2.3 A Reflection of British Religion

3. Significance of Characterization of Shylock4

3.1 Religious significance

 3.2 Economic significance

 3.3 Political significance

4. Conclusion

Bibliography.

Acknowledgements