Publisher's Synopsis
After his ships and money are lost at sea, Antonio, a prominent Venetian merchant, cannot repay a loan to Shylock, the Jewish moneylender and long-suffering target of his ridicule. Antonio must rely on an unexpected source, Shakespeare's first great heroine, to save his skin-quite literally-in this intriguing tale of love, law, mercy, and revenge.
The Merchant of Venice is perhaps best known for its controversial depiction of Shylock. Originally conceived as a bloodthirsty villain, Shylock has been later understood to be a far more sympathetic character who challenges cultural stereotypes while reminding audiences to look beyond the barrier of ethnocentricity.
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Revised edition: Previously published as The Merchant of Venice, this edition of The Merchant of Venice (AmazonClassics Edition) includes editorial revisions.
