|
|
This is only a preview of the paper
Click here to register and get the full text.
Existing members click here to login
|
|
|
William Shakespeare’s usage of language in the Merchant of Venice provides a volatile definition for the word fair. As different characters utilize the word fair, the meaning of the word alters. Two major aspects of fair are presented in the play: fairness on the streets of Venice and fairness within the courtroom. The fairness on the streets of Venice relates to folkways that are inherent to society. Folkways are defined as, “norms governing everyday behavior that are unacceptable but not punished” (Schaefer 67). On the other hand, fairness in the courtroom relates to mores that were instituted in Venetian society. Mores are defined as, “norms deemed highly necessary to the welfare of society…violation can lead to severe penalties” (Schaefer 67). The meaning of fair in the Merchant of Venice is dependent on the social mores and folkways within sixteen century Venice.
It is a social folkway that one acts in a fair manner towards other members of society. When Antonio requests a loan from Shylock, Shylock addresses Antonio as “fair sir” (1. ... Fair, in this instance means, “civilly, courteously, kindly” (OED).
Approximate Word count = 884
Approximate Pages = 3.5
(250 words per page double spaced)
|
|
|
|
|
|