Justice and Prosperity in Shakespeares The Merchant of...

One of the strengths of good theater is its ability to mirror the problems and conditions shaping its time. In The Merchant of Venice, William Shakespeare reflects two important aspects of Elizabethan society: the corrupting influence of prosperity and the increasingly vengeful nature of Venetian justice. To address the former issue, Shakespeare downplays the importance of wealth by associating its involvement in romance with superficial and insubstantial advantages. He characterizes prosperity as a deceiving agent, citing its ability to introduce shallowness into a relationship. Shakespeare reasons that genuine romance depends on sacrifice and emotion, not wealth. The problem with justice is equally striking. In the play, justice is†¦show more content†¦Wealth, therefore, has a flimsy grasp on romance that can easily be overcome with genuine affection. The same is true for Jessica, who steals her father’s gold before she elopes with Lorenzo. After discovering this, S hylock cries out, My daughter, O my ducats, O my daughter! (II.viii.15). By associating the antagonist with twisted ideals, Shakespeare creates a stark contrast between the corruption of wealth and the genuineness of love. This contrast reiterates the superficiality of wealth and suggests that its overemphasis can lead to corruption and decay in a relationship. The drawbacks of money are even more treacherous, because they possess a tendency to shroud true romance with deceptive characteristics. This conflict between shadow and substance emerges when Portia’s suitors attempt to discover the correct casket by relating the characteristics of the different caskets with their conceptions of romance. The Prince of Morocco, for example, selects the golden casket, associating its beauty with Portia’s graces: But here an angel with a golden bed / Lies all within (II.vii.64-65). He values the princess only for her wealth, status, and influence; consequently, his understanding of true love takes on a shallow and materialistic form. The simple message contained within this casket– All that glistens is not gold (II.vii.73)–affirms the idea thatShow MoreRelatedPerfect Idealism In Shakespeares Hamlet1631 Words   |  7 Pagesdepicts the many uncertainties in our lives that sometimes make us fail to act appropriately like the case of Hamlet. 2. Mosley, Joseph Scott. The Dilemma of Shakespearean Sonship: An Analysis of Paternal Models of Authority and Filial Duty in Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Diss. 2017. Similarly, this article discusses the theme of the complexity of action. This play depicts of how at times the decision to act is usually influenced not only by coherent considerations, like the need for inevitability but alsoRead MoreThe Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare Essay example2165 Words   |  9 Pagesexpanded and it became healthier and optimistic than ever before so this period could be called as the renaissance that inspired the nation and brought uplift. Therefore, this age holds great significance. Under Queen Elizabeth guidance and rule, the prosperity of the nation rose and patriotism brought romantic spirit, youthful freshness and themes of love to the field of literature so it is considered as one of the splendid ages of English literature. Elizabeth herself was a great writer and she usedRead MoreThe Presentation of Shylock and Antonio as Conflicting Opposites in The Merchant of Venice1123 Words   |  5 PagesThe Presentation of Shylock and Antonio as Conflicting Opposites in The Merchant of Venice Shakespeare personifies the juxtaposed themes of this play; justice and mercy, forgiveness and revenge. He contrasts characters of Shylock and Antonio to represent these key ideas. Shakespeare’s character representations of these themes certify that they are constantly played out against each other throughout the play. The play presents anti-semitic ideas, depicting Shylock, a JewRead MoreTragic Drama According to AC Bradleys Theory of Shakespeare and a Comparison of Arthur Miller and August Wilsons Concept of Tragedy2899 Words   |  12 PagesPart one: Tragic drama according to A.C. Bradleys theory of Shakespeare The substance of Shakespeares tragedy solely points out to the power of death. In this five act play, the death of important characters suffices for the cruel reality of life. However, a completely realm is required in order to observe Shakespeares version of tragedy. Shakespeare has used tragedy to explain on the major paradoxes of life. It can be called a Paradox of disappointment. Defeat, unfulfilled desired, failed hopes