SHAKESPEARE`S SHYLOCK: AN AVARICIOUS VILLAIN, A VICTIM, OR A COMPLEX FUSION OF BOTH

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the evolving critical perspectives on Shylock,
a character from W. Shakespeare’s play “The Merchant of Venice”, assessing whether he
embodies the traits of an avaricious villain, a sympathetic victim, or a complex amalgamation
of both. It includes a personal evaluation of Shylock’s multifaceted character, drawing
upon biblical passages that illuminate the sin of avarice, as well as insights from ancient
and medieval sources such as Plutarch, Gregory of Nyssa, Evagrius, Dante Alighieri, and
Renaissance thinkers like Martin Luther, Pierre de La Primadauye, and Thomas Wilson.
Beyond examining Shylock’s avaricious nature, the paper also investigates whether his
character trajectory aligns with de La Primadauye’s contemporary portrayal of an individual
who begins as avaricious and subsequently becomes consumed by anger and revenge.