As we known that the merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare’s most important works. It is a comedy. The theme of this play is to extol kindheartedness, friendship and love. And also it reflects the conflicts between the capitalists and usurers at the beginning of the capitalist society. And it expresses the author’s humanist idea on money, law and religion in capitalist society. This thesis analyzes the main figures in the play by using independent and contrast ways. It shows the heavily flavor of humanism at the beginning of capitalist society; and expresses some thoughts for society and human being. The thesis also makes a hard criticism to Shylock, who is a representative of feudalism, and puts a heavy humanism on Portia. It displays the thoughts of feudalism personality liberation, and stressing the great breakthrough of woman’s status and feminine consciousness in Elizabethan era.
Key Words
Character analyzing; humanism; personality liberation; women consciousness
Abstract.................................................................Ⅱ
Key Words................................................................Ⅱ
摘要......................................................................Ⅲ
关键词....................................................................Ⅲ
Introduction..............................................................1
Ⅰ. Social Background of the Play the Merchant of Venice..................2
A. The Reality Social Information in Elizabeth Throne..................2
B. Special Social Background Reflecting in the Merchant of Venice......2
Ⅱ. Analyzing the Heroes in the Play......................................3
A. Antonio...............................................................3
B. Bassanio..............................................................4
C. Shylock...............................................................5
III. Analyzing the Central Character in the Play--Portia .................6
A. The Essential Nature of Portia.........................................6
B. The Humanism Spirit Shown by Portia ...................................6
C. Portia- a Self-conscious Female........................................7
D. An Explanation on Portia Masquerading as Man...........................8
IV. A Comparative Study of Characteristic Differences among Main Figures..10
A. Portia and Jessica.....................................................10
B. Portia and Shylock.....................................................11
C. Antonio and Bassanio...................................................12
Conclusion................................................................14
Acknowledgements..........................................................16
Notes.....................................................................17
Bibliography..............................................................18