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Harvard University

Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice: Shylock

Harvard University via edX

Overview

In the first act of William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice , the Jewish moneylender Shylock proposes a “merry sport” to the merchant Antonio: he will lend Antonio the money he needs if Antonio agrees to let Shylock take a pound of his flesh should he default. Shylock calls this contract a “merry bond,” and Shakespeare’s First Folio calls the play a comedy. But what does Shylock want from the bond, and how merry does the play ultimately prove?

In this course, Harvard professor Stephen Greenblatt guides learners through an in-depth exploration of the character of Shylock. You'll learn about Jewish history in Europe, how early audiences might have responded to the play, and the history of the play’s production through the twenty-first century.

With short video lectures, readings from the play, and explorations of adaptations, you will develop critical tools with which to unlock the play's possible meanings.

If you're reading The Merchant of Venice for the first time, this course is a great introduction. If you're reading it for the hundredth time, it is the perfect chance to renew your understanding of one of Shakespeare’s most polarizing plays.

Taught by

Stephen Greenblatt

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 1 Class Central review

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  • Wow. After Hamlet's Ghost, this was amazing too. You'll learn about the background of the play, the position of the Jews in Venice, the ghetto, and the intercultural context, the connections and fights of Christians and Jews, and many more. You'll go into the depth of the play, and you'll even hear F. Murray Abraham speak, so if that's not a glowing recommendation... :)

    Professor Greenblatt is amazing. These two courses motivated me to pursue Shakespeare, even though I come from a totally different area. I can't wait to read his books and articles, since his knowledge and teaching style is so inspiring. I hope to see a sequel soon. Thank you, Harvard!

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