Abstract

The sharp differences between the theology of Catholicism and the reformed theology of the Anglican Church of Shakespeare’s day provide the only adequate basis for a proper interpretation of “Merchant of Venice.” Without a thorough grounding in the theological conflicts that gave rise to the English religious persecutions of the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, and without an appreciation of the threat to Shakespeare and his works posed by government persecution, the reader cannot grasp the purpose and meaning of Shakespeare’s esoteric writing in this play. This article’s intention is to provide the beginning for a deeper understanding of “Merchant.” It may offer new light on Shakespeare’s intention throughout his works