It is accurate to say that in the Elizabethan era, Shakespeare's contemporaries did not hold the Jews with high regard (often mocked or portrayed as villains) and there has been much controversy over whether Shakespeare supported the negative image created, or whether he challenged it. Nine years before "The Merchant of Venice" was performed, "The Jew of Malta" was written by Christopher Marlowe. The play also reflects themes of racial hatred and religious conflict which mirror the parallels of sixteenth century England and it is fair to say that Marlowe inspired "The Merchant of Venice." I believe the play reflects the general sense of fear toward outsiders, be it Jews or Catholics, felt by the English Protestants at the time. The Jew is called Barabas and he shares many similarities to the character of Shylock; his lust for money, abhorrence of Christians and longing for revenge. It is...