Many of Shakespeare’s plots have been reused numerous times throughout history. ‘The Merchant of Venice’ contains four intertwined plots, which allows Shakespeare to include elements that appeal to all audiences, including revenge, romance and humour. The use of an intertwined plot has become a popular element in modern films, with many of these elements being included in movies such as ‘Snatch’ and ‘Pulp Fiction’. For this reason, the historical context of ‘The Merchant of Venice’ is a lasting reminder of the repetitive nature of plots and gi

which, for the 16th century audience cancels out the derogatory remarks of Antonio calling Shylock a “misbeliever, cut-throat dog”. To a modern audience, however, Shylock simply seems to be reacting to the way he has been treated by society;

“stood Dido with a willow in her hand

“Fair sir, you spat on me Wednesday last,

The language of the time appeals to modern audiences for its constant visual imagery and vivid word choice that modern English has seemed to leave behind. In act five, the main action of the play is over and Shakespeare concentrates more on his language. The metaphors, personification and classical allusions he includes in this act produce a romantic atmosphere and reinforce the setting. The personification;

The character of Portia is portrayed much like a modern day woman. Towards the start of the play, she is seen to be repressed by her situation, with her father taking away her freedom to choose a husband, instead trusting this decision to a simple puzzle. Instead of creating Portia as a ‘holy grail’, as he could have done, Shakespeare makes Portia one of the strongest characters, eventually choosing her to be the play’s hero. Today, this would increase

Some topics in this essay:
Jew Shakespeare, Merchant Venice’, Venice’ Shakespeare, , ‘the merchant, ‘the merchant venice’, merchant venice’, 16th century, modern audience, shakespeare’s plays, increasing popularity shakespeare’s, audience shakespeare, visual imagery, shakespeare elements, lasting reminder, increasing popularity, 16th century audience,