Merchant of Venice, The - Study Guide

Through William Shakespeare’s complicated comedy, Merchant of Venice, students will learn:

Historical Background: late 1500s anti-Semitism, usury and money lending in Renaissance Europe.

Author Biography: Learn about William Shakespeare.

Before-You-Read Activities: Research usury/lending, write a summary of justice/mercy, define anti-Semitism, author biography, Jewish life in 1500-1600s Europe.

Vocabulary words used throughout the novel, utilizing a variety of activities to stimulate retention and growth.

Literary Techniques: Point of view, characterization study, conflict, poetic justice, heroes and villains, protagonists, antagonists, comedic plays, theme.

Moral Lessons and Character Values: Hypocrisy, Biblical teaching on money, discrimination, principles of justice, mercy, and honor, mercy from God, Christianity, friendship.

Activities and Writing Assignments: Racism study and research paper, final essays including characterization studies, compare and contrast, life lessons, and dramatic acting of one scene.

Suggestions for Further Reading: We include an in-depth reading list of more plays by the same author(s) and other books that tie in with, or are similar to, Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare. Movie suggestions included.

All of the unit lessons are written from a Christian worldview!

Features and Benefits of the study guide

Printed Workbook Format

• Large 8.5x11 format is convenient to read and easy on the eyes
• Every question has plenty of whitespace for student’s answers
• Encourages neat and clean handwriting practice
• Easily transports without the need for a laptop or other expensive equipment
• Provides a permanent record of the student’s work
• Convenient, removable answer key included for the teacher!