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"The Merchant Of Venice" - A Fairy Tale, 2006.
An analysis of the fairy tale elements of William Shakespeare's "The Merchant Of Venice".
3,707 words (approx. 14.8 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 148.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how although "The Merchant Of Venice" can be considered comic, Harley Granville-Barker claims that the play is a fairy tale because it has a lack of realism. The paper attempts to develop Granville-Barker's claim and extend it by using Vladimir Propp's theory in his "Morphology of the Folktale". It shows how Shakespeare portrays a very complex social condition of the community he lives in by using the fairy tale genre and how the refusal of the society to accept the other is conveyed through the character of Shylock, whose behavior varies according to the situation he is in. Sometimes he is portrayed as evil and sometimes as good.
From the Paper
"In this book Propp discusses the structure of the fairy tale and defines some of features common to all known fairy tales. Propp reveals thirty one functions which pertain to a fairy tale text. Moreover, Propp claims that it is not obligatory for all the thirty one functions to be in each fairy tale, but the order of these functions remains the same in each of them:" As for grouping, it is necessary to say first of all that by no means do all fairy tales give evidence of all functions. But this in no way changes the law of sequence. The absence of certain functions does not change the order of the rest. "(22). The Merchant of Venice has some of the functions that are defined in the Morphology of The Folktale, and it is the order of those functions in the plot that leads to the conclusion that the play is a fairy tale. "
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"The Merchant of Venice" by Shakespeare: Fairy Tale or Problem Play?, 2001.
An in-depth look at the underlying themes of prejudice, loyalty and love, in this well known Shakespearean play.
1,790 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
In this paper the author discusses whether the ?Merchant of Venice? is a fairy tale, as exemplified by the romantic comedy genre, or a problem play. The author looks at the three themes he suggests run through the play: Prejudice, Loyalty and Love. He looks closely at the character of Shylock and how he has been depicted over time, from villain to someone who should be pitied and at the hypocrisy shown by the Christian characters; he examines the relationships between Antonio, Bassanio, Portia, Gratiano, Nerissa, Lorenzo, and Jessica and the resulting marriages and love is examined with respect to the platonic loyalty between friends and in the romantic exchanges between suitors and spouses.
From the paper:
?The theme of loyalty in the play comes out through the interactions of several sets of characters. First, there is Bassanio, who is close friends with Antonio --? friendship which survives many stressful situations in the play. The loyalty between Bassanio and Antonio becomes evident I the first act of the play when Antonio loans Bassanio a large sum of money and takes him on his word that he will repay it.?
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Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice?, 2005.
This paper compares the three suitors in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" and explores how Shakespeare influences the audience's attitudes towards the three men.
1,380 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", Portia's three suitors--the Prince of Morocco, the Prince of Arragon and Bassanio-- reveal the contents of the three caskets and, by exposing their attitudes towards the caskets, indicate their true character, which heightens the dramatic tension. The author points out that, at the time the play was written England was at war with Spain so Arragon, a rather unflattering stereotype of a typical Spaniard, would have been funny to an Elizabethan audience and his name "Arragon" and "Arrogant" amusing. The paper relates that Morocco is jeered at for his skin color but Bassanio is portrayed more favorably as a Christian and Venetian, who is not proud or arrogant. Many illustrations.
From the Paper
"The second suitor is the Prince of Arragon whose entrance unlike Morocco's is not pre-empted by any comments from Portia. His arrogance and pride are shown through his choice of casket and his reaction to choosing the wrong casket. He comments on the inscription of gold casket, "...I will not jump with common spirits/And rank me with barbarous multitudes" (Act II Scene ix). Thinking gold was too common for him he arrogantly discards it. He does not even stop to contemplate the lead casket saying only that it would have to look more attractive for him to hazard anything for it. The silver casket is the one that appeals to him the most because he feels that no one deserving should go unmerited. His arrogance leads him to assume that he is worthy of Portia."
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Shylock, Shakespeare and the "Merchant of Venice", 2002.
A discussion of the characterization of Shylock by Shakespeare in the "Merchant of Venice".
1,975 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 90.95
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Abstract
This is an argumentative paper about the characterization of Shylock in the "Merchant of Venice" and whether Shakespeare should be viewed as a racist for his portrayal of Shylock. The author argues that Shakespeare is not an anti-Semite and merely reflects popular prejudice in his characterization of Shylock.
From the Paper
'Shakespeare is not an anti-Semite. He does not portray Jews with intentional slander but instead utilizes contemporary bias and prejudice to create controversy and commentary delivering social medicine to the public through the very same conduit of their prejudice. Shylock, in the "Merchant of Venice," is a target and conduit for popular prejudice. By first laughing at the realization of social beliefs the audience is then stunned when Shylock forces the realization of his equality. Regarding "The Merchant of Venice," and Shylock, there are two schools of thought. While many call Shakespeare a racist, anti-Semite, bigot and worse, for his many portrayals of minority groups, the portrayal of Shylock has a unique aspect, which necessarily separates it from any other instance of racism within Shakespeare's work."
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A Pound of Flesh: Shakespeare?s ?The Merchant of Venice?, 2000.
A look at how Shakespeare deals with the human need for vengeance in "The Merchant of Venice".
919 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, AU$ 47.95
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From the Paper
"Why is it that it is so hard for human beings to forgive the damage that is done to them by others? What is it inside of people that drives them to vindictively exact a pound of flesh from those who have done wrong? These are questions that arise in Shakespeare?s play The Merchant of Venice. Shakespeare?s character Shylock becomes one of literature?s most famous pursuers of revenge when he demands a pound of flesh in payment of a bond drawn on him by Antonio. But Shakespeare shows how revenge can backfire and leave the avenger in worse conditions than if he were to have merely forgiven the person who offended him. An examination of Shylock?s ?Hath not a Jew eyes? speech shows how Shylock attempts to justify his thirst for revenge against Antonio and the other merchants who are prejudiced against him."
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Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", 2002.
A look at the anti-semitism in the play.
650 words (approx. 2.6 pages), 1 source, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper is on "The Merchant of Venice" by Shakespeare and the use of anti-semantic stereotypes within the play.
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Fairy Tales and "A Tale of Two Cities", 2008.
A discussion on how Charles Dickens' "A Tale of Two Cities" contains elements of fairy tales.
1,725 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens and classical fairy tales are very related through the function of oppression, achieving a voice, and the use of stock characters. It looks at how certain ideas and characters, such as Madame Defarge and Lucie in "A Tale of Two Cities", are comparable to ideas and characters like evil stepmothers and princesses in fairy tales. Through the similarities, Dickens' novel is a parallel of fairy tales.
From the Paper
"Fairy tales contain a manner of oppression as well. Most princesses discussed in fairy tales undergo rejection from a higher authority, similar to the ostracizing of peasants by the nobility. The story of Cinderella addresses the issues of oppression and injustice ("Cinderella" 1). Cinderella faces rejection from her stepmother when coerced to act as a servant in the house by constantly cleaning, attending to the stepsisters' needs, and dressing in rags. The stepmother refuses to allow Cinderella to attend the Prince Charming's ball as well. Her stepsisters', however, are treated properly as a daughter should be with love from the mother. "
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Jung, Fairy Tale Interpretation and Little Red Cap, 2002.
A look at C.G. Jung's interpretation of fairy tales from Mario Jacoby's paper "Jung's Fairy Tale Interpretation and Little Red Cap".
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper is written as a reflection on "Jung's Fairy Tale Interpretation and Little Red Cap". Mario Jacoby's paper on C.G. Jung and the interpretation of fairy tales stresses that both Freud and Jung, early on, explored fairy tales as part of their study, with Jung noting how human fantasy as found in fairy tales was a reflection of human creative potential.
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"The Merchant of Venice", 2005.
An analysis of the "ring plot" in "The Merchant of Venice" by William Shakespeare.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, AU$ 64.95
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Abstract
The paper examines how the themes of fidelity and financial gain through greed are the main themes of the "ring plot" in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice". The writer proposes that, by analyzing the symbolic role of the wedding ring as a valuable financial asset, as well as a symbol for loyalty, one can realize the comedic value of Portia's test of Bassanio.
From the Paper
"In this drama study the crucial "ring plot" in "The Merchant of Venice" will be examined. Both Nerissa and Portia both demand their husband's wedding rings due to the extreme monetary nature of love depicted between suitors and marriage in Shakespeare's play. The factors of infidelity, forced marriage, and the availability of wealth for Portia's suitors offers an solution as to why the rings become symbolic of greed and infidelity in marital issues. In essence, the rings come to symbolize the comedic overtones of greed for money and broken vows of marriage through the Venetian institution of marriage and courtship. In Act V, scene I of The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare acknowledges a triumphant court battle between Shylock and Antonio for a debt accrued for backing Bassanio's courtship fees for Portia."
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Interpretation of Fairy Tales, 2001.
This essay examines Bengt Holbek's model of classifying and interpreting the world's fairy tales.
2,900 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 6 sources, AU$ 123.95
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Abstract
After examining the basic elements of Holbek's system, the writer applies them to several fairy tales about giants to see how well it works ?on the ground?. Holbek?s system is based on seven rules, rather like algorithms that he used to correlate the various symbolic expressions within fairy tales to the corresponding (real world) emotional expressions, focusing on three thematic opposition: child versus adult, male versus female and low versus high.
From the paper:
?Holbek?s system of structural oppositions ?define the three categories of crises which occur in fairy tales,? all of which are in turn "real or possible events in the storytelling community?, which may include such relatively minor trauma as adolescent rebellion and such terrible ones as incest (Holbek 416 & 418). Holbek believed that this psychological delving of fairy tales was in no way inappropriate, arguing that ?every element [in a fairy tale] may be read as pertaining to real life? (Holbek 439. For Holbek, every ogre, fairy, sprite and giant was merely the representation of a real person (Holbek 418).?
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"The Merchant of Venice", 2007.
This paper analyzes the character of Portia in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice."
2,831 words (approx. 11.3 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 122.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a description of the casket scenes in Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice." The paper looks at Portia, one of Shakespeare's more willful and determined women, and explains how the lottery system devised by Portia's father sheds light on her character. The paper also compares Portia's character at the casket scenes with that at the court scene.
Outline:
Introduction
The Casket Scenes
The Court Scene
Conclusion
From the Paper
"First of all, it is interesting to note that the lottery system that Portia's father had construed consisted of caskets instead of any other available objects. In a system that was devised to find Portia a husband, it is almost macabre that caskets be used to symbolize her impending marriage. It is almost as if hinting that her father knew how much she would dread a chance marriage as much as death itself. The lottery system hides a Christian bias (Sparknotes.com) where it also resembles Venice of the play. The caskets are gold, silver and lead and each with its own inscriptions. According to Christian teachings, humans should resist the idea of desire as it is unreliable. There is also the matter of appearances being deceiving and that humans should not only trust their senses."
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Beauty in Fairy Tales, 2002.
A discussion of the significance of the theme of beauty in fairy tales.
2,000 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 91.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the significance of the emphasis of beauty in fairy tales and its impact on contemporary American society. By interweaving personal perceptions and research about different fairy tales and their portrayal of beauty, it provides multiple perspectives on how women?s lives are adversely affected by these tales. It shows how with their prototypical presentations about women and their overemphasis on the importance of beauty, fairy tales reinforce the stereotypical perceptions of women and undermine the latter?s accomplishments. It also looks at how fairy tales play a large role in shaping and defining the identities of women and the perceptions of society and how they have succeeded in establishing the gender relationships and dominating the social discourse of American society-Myth America.
From the Paper
"The analysis of the theme of beauty in the fairy tale of ?Snow White? by Marc Fonda also provides me with a new perspective of the sinister effects of fairy tales. Fundamentally, the conflict between Snow White and the Queen revolves around the pursuit of beauty. Because she has lost her ?title? as the most beautiful woman in the kingdom to Snow White, she decides to kill the latter in order to regain her title (Fonda 14). In the Disney movie version of ?Snow White,? the Queen is further enraged when she sees a young prince accosting Snow White, the most beautiful woman in the kingdom."
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"The Merchant of Venice", 2008.
A study of the message conveyed in William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice", through the portrayal of the characters.
2,300 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 101.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses the play "The Merchant of Venice" by William Shakespeare which depicts characters who are not as obviously evil or heroic as originally thought. The paper illustrates that the play simply raises the question of stereotypes and of the audience's prejudices toward a race of people, in order to examine it in their own minds. There is no answer to the question of whether Shylock was good or evil. Critics who have placed the blame either squarely on Shylock for being evil or who have taken the opposite tact, have missed the point. The paper concludes that the point of the play is not to display Jewish villainy, but to show humanity, to examine pity, to find the meaning of mercy and to dread the consequences of revenge.
From the Paper
"It is here, in The Merchant of Venice, the Jewish Shylock makes a case against slave ownership. He reaches the trial, an opportune time in the play where one might be able to make a point and make a point Shylock certainly does. Even though it has been argued that Shakespeare was anti-Semitic, in actuality, The Merchant of Venice shows that he is not insensitive to the Jewish plight and in fact is more anti-slavery than anything else. Even though the hero, Antonio, his friend, Bassanio and the duke triy to save the day, all are against him, Shylock does not waver, but continues with his request for a pound of flesh, as he says, concerning slaves, "Let them be free, marry them to your heirs /Why sweat they under burdens?.. . . You will answer 'The slaves are ours.' So do I answer you." A young judge is sent, when Bellario cannot come to be judge because he is ill. Balthasar decides in Antonio's favor, speaking through Portia, who in this play is shown not only to be assertive, but wise."
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Magic Beings in Fairy Tales, 2004.
This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes the topic of magic beings in fairy tales.
1,085 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the importance of magic beings and fairies in fairy tales. It explains how, today, fairies are a popular form of fantasy that come to life in a variety of ways. One of the most traditional homes for fairies and other magical beings is the fairy tale, created for children but loved by all ages. It discusses how some of the most beloved fairy tales contain fairies and magical beings that are central to the plot, the moral, and the essence of the stories. Without fairies and other magical beings, these tales would lose their magic and their universal appeal.
From the Paper
"Fairies are magical beings that inhabit many of the world's most famous fairy tales. Children old and young are familiar with many of these tales from Cinderella to Sleeping Beauty and beyond. Fairies and magical beings are part of what make these fairy tales so delightful and so memorable. Not all fairies are good, but most of them are happy beings that can make a character's life better, more contented, and more fulfilling. Fairy expert Cassandra Eason notes the word originally meant, "a state of enchantment or glamour, the power of illusion, reflecting the power of beings that might bring blessings or curses, and an ambivalence towards such beings" (Eason 17). Fairies do not inhabit as many fairy tales as one might think, but the tales they do inhabit are special and vibrant, such as "Peter Pan," "Cinderella," "Sleeping Beauty," "The Wizard of Oz," "The Hobbit," and "Snow White." "
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The Use of Rhetoric in "The Merchant of Venice", 2006.
An analysis of the use of language to modify and influence events in William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice".
1,300 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper examines numerous examples of rhetoric in William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice". This paper focuses on two characters and their use of language to persuade others to act in a certain way, as well as on Shakespeare's use of those characters to sway the reader. The author first explores Portia's character and her use of rhetoric for control. Next he studies Shakespeare's use of rhetoric for mercy, as seen through the character of Shylock.
From the Paper
"Let's evaluate the scene where Portia and Bassanio are before the caskets where Bassanio must make his choice. The dialogue directly proceeding the finding of the casket is basic lover's speech, but wait! Listen carefully to what Portia says: "If you do love me, you will find me out" (III ii 41). Portia leads Bassanio to believe that the choice he makes in the caskets his own. She leads the reader to believe that Bassanio's love for her is the only force which leads to the discovery of the correct casket. However, earlier when Portia is speaking of the preparations for the casket choice, she speaks of music which is to be played while Bassanio makes his choice. Ok, this seems innocent enough; but examine the song -- the first two lines of the song rhyme with lead. It doesn't take long for the subliminal message to be absorbed in Bassanios brain, and the lead casket is chosen. This manipulative device is an indication to me that Portia has a need to make things go her way. She is afraid that Bassanio will make the wrong choice, and therefore assists him."
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Anti-Semitism in "Merchant of Venice", 2005.
An analysis of the theme of anti-Semitism in William Shakespeare's "Merchant of Venice".
778 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how Shakespeare's "Merchant of Venice" contains elements of anti-Semitism when depicting Shylock as a stereotypical Jew. Because he is a Jewish usurer, Shylock appears tight-fisted and materialistic. It looks at how Antonio and other characters hold grudges against him because of his trade, leading the audience to shun him as well. Shylock is also degraded because of his faith, as characters consider him dog like and devilish. It also shows how casting an even darker shadow onto Shylock are the Christians, whom Shakespeare constructs as characters of righteousness and courage.
From the Paper
"In Merchant of Venice, Christians are shown in a light of goodness as they defend Antonio's life, while Shylock is seen as a bloodthirsty murderer. In the midst of Shylock's excitement over Antonio's death sentence, the Christians beg for Shylock to spare Antonio's life. While Shylock is shown here as the murderous villain, the Christians are seen in more of a heroic light. Instinctively, the audience equates Shylock, the murderer, as the "bad guy" and the Christians, who act in a heroic manner, as the "good guys." Because he is a usurer, it is automatically assumed that Shylock intended to murder Antonio to rid himself of future money discrepancies. "
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