Like Don Quixote or Robinson Crusoe, Shylock is one of the great familiar figures of world drama, known even to people who have never read or seen The Merchant of Venice. He is also one of the most controversial characters ever conceived; his ambiguities have been a challenge to actors, directors, critics, and playgoers for more than four centuries. Is he villain or victim? Tragic or comic? What was Shakespeare's attitude toward the character described...

Combines elements of analysis, history, biography, performance, and the personal passions of six presenters to tell the stories behind the stories of six Shakespeare plays. Includes interviews with actors, directors, and scholars; visits to key locations; clips from celebrated film and television adaptations; and illustrative excerpts from performances staged at Shakespeare's Globe in London especially for the series.