First performed in 1605, Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice deals with what are today some very controversial issues. The character that seems to be the source of most of the controversy is that of the Jewish moneylender; Shylock.

As attitudes toward Judaism have changed, so too have attitudes toward this ambivalent character. In Shakespearean times, Shylock may have been seen very much as `the devil' - as evil personified - but, today, he is likely to be presented and received with a lot more sympathy.

Throughout the play, many different themes are explored; love versus hatred; love versus money; forgiveness versus revenge. These themes can be interpreted as being embodied by different characters, and Shylock, it seems, does not personify love or forgiveness. Antonio, who seems to represent Christianity in the play, does seem to reflect these positive qualities of love and forgiveness. So, in this respect at...