Why Shakespeare's Choice to Place the Merchant of Venice in Italy

William Shakespeare is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated playwrights in history. His works continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their complex characters, rich language, and profound themes. One of his most renowned plays, The Merchant of Venice, is set in a city that most people associate with love, romance, and art – Italy. Shakespeare’s decision to place this play in Italy was a deliberate one, and it not only adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the play but also serves several important purposes.

To begin with, Italy, during Shakespeare’s time, was widely perceived as an exotic and culturally rich country. It was renowned for its prominent role in the Renaissance, a period marked by immense intellectual and artistic achievements. Italy, especially Venice, was known as a center for commerce, trade, and wealth. By selecting Italy as the backdrop for The Merchant of Venice, Shakespeare creates an intriguing and vibrant setting that suits the thematic elements of the play.

Moreover, Italy’s reputation as the birthplace of art and beauty aligns with the themes of appearance versus reality that are central to The Merchant of Venice. The city of Venice itself is often depicted as a picturesque and opulent place, symbolizing the facade of wealth and prosperity. However, beneath the shiny exterior, there lies a darker reality, highlighting the deceptive nature of appearances. By choosing an Italian setting, Shakespeare captures the essence of these themes and allows the audience to explore the complexities of human nature.

Furthermore, placing the play in an Italian setting gives Shakespeare the opportunity to explore cultural and religious differences. In The Merchant of Venice, the conflict between Antonio, the Christian merchant, and Shylock, the Jewish moneylender, forms the crux of the play. Italy, during Shakespeare’s time, had a significant Jewish population, and anti-Semitic sentiment was prevalent. By setting the play in Venice, Shakespeare ensures that these deep-rooted religious and racial tensions become an inherent part of the narrative. It allows him to delve into the themes of prejudice, discrimination, and intolerance in a manner that resonates with the audience.

In addition, the Italian setting also plays a significant role in highlighting the play’s portrayal of justice and the legal system. Venice, during Shakespeare’s time, had a reputation for its intricate and elaborate legal processes. The city’s renowned court system was considered one of the most sophisticated in Europe. By placing his characters within this system, Shakespeare provides a platform to explore the complexities of the law and the concept of justice. The trial scene in The Merchant of Venice, where the fate of Antonio and Shylock is decided, showcases the intricacies of the legal system and raises questions about the fairness of justice.

Shakespeare’s choice to place The Merchant of Venice in Italy not only adds a layer of cultural richness to the play but also serves to enhance the themes, conflicts, and character dynamics. Italy’s reputation as a center of art and beauty, the existence of religious and racial tensions, and the intricate legal system all contribute to the overall narrative of the play. By transporting his audience to Italy, Shakespeare skillfully intertwines historical and cultural elements, creating a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today.