Merchant of Venice-Main theme prejudice

In Merchant of Venice, some main themes revolved around prejudism and anti-Sesmitic. This can be seen throughout the entire book, shown based on the prejudice towards Shylock, a Jew.

Firstly, he was called nasty names by Antonio and friends. Names such as, "dog Jew", as well as metaphors, making Shylock compared to the devil. This clearly shows how the people during that time looked down on the jews, and interpreted them as horrible creatures. Also, Antonio also stated in Act One, Scene 3, Lines 125-126 that "I am as like to call thee so again, / To spit on thee again, to spurn thee too". Which meant that he would continue looking down on Jews, by calling names , spiting on them and treating them without respect. This shows the treatment of Jews in the 1500s, and the anti-Sesmitic and prejudice existing at that time.

However, this prejudice still exist in our societies today. In the 20th century, there was deep prejudice against the african-americans. They were looked down upon, their houses were burnt, and they were even killed, just because of their skin colour. However, the Civil Rights Movement, with the aim to remove the racism, caused boycotts and strikes. This eventually was sucessful, and their was finally fair treatment and justice given to the african-americans. However, even so, in our time, people still have the mindset to look down to the african-americans due to their black skin colour. They still despise them, and do not respect them.

In Singapore context, there are also a number that look down at other races. For example, some may still look down on the indian construction workers, and feel that they are a nuisance to our society. This is very dispicable, and as Singapore is a multi-racial country, it is very important to maintain racial harmony. Without it, there would be non-stop rioting and strikes, as the result of this prejudice.

In my own opinion, I feel that prejudice is just wrong. One should not be treated differently due to their skin colour! Everyone is human, and thus should be given equal treatment. Humans are humans , no matter their skin colour, black or white, chinese or indian. Blood still flows through us. Thus, I deeply feel that prejudice is wrong, and should be prevented in our societies.