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Re: Shylock
You want to know what's strange, when I was taught Merchant of Venice I was taught Shylock was the victim and that everyone else was horrible and I can't see the play in any other light. But in all seriousness, no I don't really think it's usable. There is the Hebrew name Shai/Shay that is pronounced like the word Shy (my friend's little brother is named Shai) that could work for you.
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That's rightShylock was a negative character when he was written. After people became more enlightened--ie didn't hate the Jews/blame them for everything--Shylock morphed into an almost sympathetic character. It really depends on who is directing the play. That's what makes Shakespeare so great. He'll give you the beginnings but it really depends on how stage direction and acting. /English major Shakespeare love.Where I've lived (especially in NYC) Shylock is still an insult. If you told my uncle, "Hey, I just named my baby Shylock. Isn't it pretty?" He would get very offended. But this is all pointless because I see OP has been convinced. :)
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UUHH yes I am with you! Shakespeare can be ANYTHING. It's so amazing. I'm on a King Lear kick right now -- King Lear and Cordelia = manipulative assholes. Goneril and Regan = victims.
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Hahaha!! Yeah, I vote against Romeo and Juliet and for Puck. lol
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I was taught the same thing about Shylock. Yet at the same time we also learned about the ways in which he was portrayed in a negative or racist light.
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