Problem

1. In Dr. Weller's first lecture, he pointed out that the majority of Shylock's speech in Act I, Scene III ("How like a fawning publican he looks...") is cut from the movie adaptation. How does this adaption change the audience's understanding of Shylock? How does this adaption influence the audience's understanding of the play as a whole? Consider the themes of prejudice and racism.

2. How would you describe the relations between Christians and Jews in Venice as represented by Act I Scene III? What seems to be the main difference between the Jews and the Christians, at least the merchants? Based upon the text, is one religion portrayed in a more favorable light? Support your claims with specific quotes.

3. What similarities are there between Launcelot and Gobbo's relationship and Jessica and Shylock's? What are the differences you can see this far? What are the larger implications of these similarities and/or differences?