... aproblem? play due to the tragic elements woven throughout the intricate plot. It was performed in front of a xenophobic, Elizabethan audience who were not particularly well educated or literate but they understood the complexities of the issues being raised in the play and would have been less sympathetic towards Shylock ... his money by his only daughter, Jessica. With very strong language, Shylock wishes that Jessica ?Were dead at my foot? This wish for his daughter's death revokes much of the sympathy created by the former plea for the recognition of his humanity. Shakespeare yet aga...

• Word Count: 1866
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School