To what Extent Is Shylock Responsible For His Downfall In The Play The Merchant Of Venice

Shylock's Downfall In Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice, Shylock, the Jewish money lender, is only partly responsible for his own downfall. In fact, he is responsible perhaps to a lesser extent than the other parties. It is true that Shylock set the terms of the bond that was to eventually destroy him, and throughout his life had led a cruel and merciless vendetta against the non-Jews. It is also true that Shylock's very personality …

… certain extent. His naivety, personality, obsession with revenge, and stubbornness contributed to his downfall. However, other factors conspired against him. The Christians and society abused and discriminated him, driving him to the very edge of sanity. They stole his daughter, and rigged the court case. Portia is especially accountable for Shylock's demise, influencing a biased verdict in court. Certainly then, these two parties share considerable responsibility for Shylock's demise. Daniel MacPherson, 9Mu, EXT