Shakespeare/Merchant of Venice/Character and characterisation

Characterisation is the process by which a character’s personality is made known to the audience. In drama, this can be through dialogue, actions, props, costume and staging.

How are the following techniques used to develop character?
 * 1) Introductions: (Include comments about them before they first appear and their first appearances)
 * 2) Things heard about in report: (Said by others, but not seen on stage by the audience)

Imagery patterns

 * wealth/value
 * biblical imagery
 * animal imagery
 * classical imagery
 * bonds/agreements/oaths

Relationships
Why are the following relationships important? Think about the contribution made to characterisation, themes, gender relationships etc.


 * Bassanio and Portia
 * Shylock and Antonio
 * Jessica and Lorenzo
 * Nerissa and Portia

Settings
Some settings are associated with particular characters, which means they

Symbolism

 * music
 * caskets
 * storms/tempests
 * rings

Portia