Hi Everyone,
We are fast approaching the end of MoV, and last week we watched and read the climactic courtroom scene. Shylock has the power of the law fully behind him, but it is his determination to stick to the letter of the law which is his undoing.
The scene peaks with him, beaten, facing the choice between the gallows, or disavowing his religion and losing his wealth.
It's a powerful scene, with drama, strong emotions and lots of colour throughout.
Today's Task
Creative writing task today folks, with a reflective slant. Imagine you are one EITHER of the key characters in the scene - Bassanio, Gratiano, Antonio (oh, woe is me!), Portia or Shylock OR a faceless, minor character in the crowd. Think about how they would be feeling, and write a short (max 300 words) piece of writing from their point of view. Try to include a real taste for the times - what are people wearing? What can you see, hear and smell? Is the room lit with candles, big flaming torches, or perhaps are you in an outside courtroom? How are you feeling? Do you feel sorry for Shylock, on his knees with the crowd baying for his blood? Do you feel he is harshly treated - after all, he had the law on his side? Or does he get everything he deserves? After all, he is just a Jew!
For those who asked - shakespeare's insults! Click here - but you need Adobe Acrobat
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