This edition of The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare offers a modern, accessible text with updated spelling and punctuation. The book focuses on Shakespeare’s attitude toward Semitism, a central theme addressed in the extensive introduction, including an analysis of Sigmund Freud’s essay on 'The Three Caskets'.
Professor Jay L. Halio discusses the play’s contradictions and complexities, with special attention to themes such as bonds and slavery. The performance history of the play is also covered, from early productions to major twentieth-century productions, including performances in Israel.
Product specifications
- Author: William Shakespeare
- Series: Oxford World’s Classics
- Publisher: Oxford University Press
- Publication date: April 17, 2008
- Number of pages: 256
- ISBN: 9780199535859
- Theme: Classic plays / drama
- BISAC: DRAMA / Shakespeare
About the author
Jay L. Halio is Professor of English at the University of Delaware and is known for his deep knowledge of Shakespeare’s work.