ICSE Class 9 Answered

In the play, the Christian characters only interact with Shylock within a framework of finance and law. There is no friendship between Shylock or any of the Christian money lenders in the business. The clash between Christianity and Judaism is especially present in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Shylock is often ridiculed for his faith, to which he retaliates with some strong points. Shylock disapproves of the Christians because throughout the play he is directly addressed as only “Jew.” Sometimes he is referred to as a “Jew dog” as well. The Christians who dislike him for one reason or another, do not call him by his real name and instead, simply refer to him only by his choice of faith. Shylock is also always upset with Antonio. The relationship between them is that of animosity and mistrust. He hates Antonio because he lends money without interest disturbing the moneylending business in Venice.