William Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice is a richly complicated and, to some, a deeply disturbing work.

Several themes are presented within the framework of a traditional comedy that calls for the triumph of young lovers over their restrictive elders.

Yet, the play, with its highly debated portrayal of the moneylender Shylock, resists easy categorization, incorporating elements of tragedy and romance in equal portion.

This new edition of critical essays features an introduction by Shakespearean scholar Harold Bloom, a chronology of the Bard's life, a bibliography, and an index for quick reference.