The Merchant of Venice

by William Shakespeare

The Merchant of Venice: Soliloquy 1 key example

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Definition of Soliloquy

A soliloquy is a literary device, most often found in dramas, in which a character speaks to him or herself, relating his or her innermost thoughts and feelings as if... read full definition
A soliloquy is a literary device, most often found in dramas, in which a character speaks to him or herself, relating his or her innermost... read full definition
A soliloquy is a literary device, most often found in dramas, in which a character speaks to him or herself... read full definition
Act 1, scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Shylock's Hatred:

Directly before Shylock and Antonio interact for the first time in the play, Shylock says of the merchant in an aside,

I hate him for he is a Christian,

But more for that in low simplicity

He lends out money gratis and brings down

The rate of usance here with us in Venice.

 If I can catch him once upon the hip,

I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him.

He hates our sacred nation, and he rails,

Even there where merchants most do congregate,

On me, my bargains and my well-won thrift,

Which he calls "interest."

Cursèd be my tribe If I forgive him!