A review by zerate
The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare

5.0

There is important commentary on the Venetian dynamic between the Christians and the Jews and further contention as to whether Shakespeare was anti-semitic in his portrayal of Shylock. While I did fear for Antonio's life more than once, Portia's manipulation of the law and his bond was simply impressive. Shakespeare eloquently builds tension and incorporates bashful laughter for comedic relief.

Shakespeare truly is a jokester—this stands to be one of my favourite comedic Shakespeare plays. Fashioning the resilience and wit of women and of prosecution, I fell in love with Portia's manoeuvring of Shylock vs. Antonio, and further her prying of her ring from her husband while dressed as a civil doctor. I especially loved this play for its uniqueness in plot and its sharp wit.