The Merchant of Venice: Writer’s Techniques

Dramatic Techniques

Shakespeare’s use of soliloquy is a vital technique that reveals intimate thoughts and feelings of characters such as Shylock, who in Act III, Scene 1 delves into his motivations and desires.
The frequent use of dramatic irony intensifies tension, as the audience knows more than the characters do. For instance, during the court scene, the audience is aware of Portia’s disguise when the characters are not.
By implementing foreshadowing, Shakespeare adds suspense. An example is when Antonio signs the bond, foreshadowing the upcoming courtroom scene and his potential doom.

Symbolism

The three caskets of gold, silver, and lead, embody the themes of appearance versus reality and love over material wealth. The right choice correlates with the chooser’s character.
Animal imagery is often used in character descriptions, particularly against Shylock who is referred to as a wolf or dog, highlighting the prejudice he faces.

Use of Language

Shakespeare’s utilisation of iambic pentameter and blank verse lends a poetic dimension to the dialogue and characterises different social statuses.
Shylock’s famous ‘Hath not a Jew eyes?’ monologue uses rhetorical questions and repetition to humanise him and create sympathy from the audience.
Metaphors and similes are used to create rich imagery, enhancing the audience’s understanding of the characters and their situations. For instance, Antonio’s sadness is described as an “argosy” (a large merchant ship), hinting at his maritime ventures.

Characterisation

Direct and indirect characterisation is extensively used by Shakespeare. For instance, Shylock’s character is highlighted not only by his actions and statements but also by how other characters perceive him.
Dialogue creates a vivid portrait of characters, their relationships, and their feelings, contributing to their complexity.

Structure

Shakespeare employs a five-act structure, a standard in Elizabethan theatre, which enhances the dramatic tension and climax of the play.
Plot and subplot are interwoven, and both the main plot with Antonio and Shylock and the subplots involving the casket challenge and Jessica’s elopement, highlight and explore the play’s themes.

By focusing on these techniques used by Shakespeare, readers can gain an in-depth understanding of ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and its multiple layers of meaning. Remember, one cannot consider these techniques in isolation but must explore how they interact to strengthen the overall impact of the play.