In the play the Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare, the
             character ShylockÕs portrayal changes a great deal. This manÕs image goes from
             that of a cruel and evil murder to a pitiful and helpless beggar of mercy.
             These circumstances raise the question of what kind of man Shylock truly is,
             and whether or not the reader should feel pity for him. There is no doubt that
             Shylock is a man with faults, but there is evidence to suggest that his
             intentions though cruel and heartless are the result of years of unjust
             provocation on the part of Antonio.
             Shylock reveals a very dark side of himself once he has Antonio at his
             mercy. Out of context, ShylockÕs actions would be perceived by most people to
             be savagely unmerciful. Shylock refuses twice the bond which is owed to him by
             Antonio, and upon seeing his determination to have AntonioÕs life, the Duke
             asks him ÒHow shalt thou hope for mercy, rendering none?Ó (IV,I, 88) ShylockÕs
             response to this is ÒWhat judgment shall I fear, doing no wrong?Ó. (IV, I, 89)
             In this he is clearly saying that he believes his actions to be completely
             justified. In order to make a reasonable argument on ShylockÕs behalf, a reader
             must see this exchange as more than the simple collection of a debt.
             There is a bitter past and a history of problems between Shylock and
             Antonio. Some of these problems become clear to the reader when Shylock states
             to the reader: How like a fawning publican he looks!
             I hate him for he is a Christian,But more for that in low simplicity
             He lends out money gratis and brings down
             the rate of usance here with us in Venice.If I catch him once upon the hip,
             I will feed the fat that ancient grudge I bear him.
             He hates our sacred nation, and he rails,
             Even there where merchants most do congregate,
             on me, my bargains, and my well won-thrift.
             Which he calls interest. Cursed be my tribeIf I forgive him! (I,III,38-49)
             In other wo...