PARAPHRASING THE MERCHANT OF VENICE - For ICSE Class 9th and 10th

The book has three major sections: the important paraphrases prose versions ofthe play and background as well as characterization. It is imperative to have learnt thespecific scenes beforehand in class to get a truly rounded understanding ofShakespeare’s ‘The Merchant of Venice’ and to be able to connect the paraphrases linesor the novel-form acts.Paraphrases are meant for one purpose: to simplify the text in English. The Actsin prose however are important for more than that reason – they help imagine the scenedue to complete descriptions of setting and costume actions and expressions which arenot as detailed within the play version the simple reason being that the play was writtento be enacted and all these details would be clearly visible to the audience. Reading theprose section also provides a method for quick revision through mention of most detailsas present in the play and with the added benefit of smooth flowing action which makesmemorizing the sequence of events easier.The last section includes characterization and certain themes and backgroundsthat I have found to be quite interesting and useful. After all we learn Literature in schoolto better our own thought and mindset understand perspectives and history and so muchmore. It’s not just an exam. Keep in mind that the interpretations of character are myown and if taught something else in school stick to the teacher’s words. My descriptionsare here to add another view on the behaviors and personalities of these characters and ifyou agree with what I have written you may use these exact words at your owndiscretion.Do go through the backgrounds as they provide meaningful context for whycertain things are said or why Shylock as a Jew plays the role of a villain especiallyfrom the eyes of the Christian majority in Elizabethan England.On that note onward! I do hope this book will provide the help you need whilestudying ‘The Merchant of Venice’.