The Merchant of Venice (Oxford School Shakespeare Series)

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Summary: The Merchant of Venice
Review: The Merchant of Venice, by William Shakespeare, is a play that many readers will enjoy. Although this play may seem lighthearted, it addresses important themes and reflects societal views. The theme of appearances versus reality is depicted through the gold, sliver, and lead caskets that Portia's suitors pick from, illustrating the cliché that "all that glitters is not gold". This theme is revisited when Portia dresses as a man and cleverly solves the conflict between Bassanio, Antonio, and Shylock. Shakespeare also addresses the anti-Semitic views of the Elizabethan society though the antagonistic interaction between Antonio and Shylock. At the conclusion of the play, all the conflicts are happily resolved: Bassanio and Portia are reunited and Shylock converts to Christianity. The audience leaves the play with that warm and happy feeling. I would highly recommend this play.