Greed

Definition

Greed is an intense and selfish desire for something, often wealth or power, that can lead to unethical behavior and conflicts. In literature, greed often serves as a driving force for characters' actions and decisions, influencing their relationships and the plot's progression. It can be depicted as a destructive trait that ultimately brings about downfall, illustrating the moral consequences of excessive desire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Merchant of Venice', Shylock's greed for money and revenge fuels his determination to exact a pound of flesh from Antonio, showcasing how greed can consume a person.
2. Shylock's character raises questions about the morality of greed, especially in contrast to the Christian values represented by other characters who emphasize mercy and forgiveness.
3. Greed not only affects Shylock but also impacts his relationships with others, contributing to his isolation and ultimately his tragic fate.
4. The portrayal of Shylock highlights how greed can lead to dehumanization, both of the person who is greedy and those around them, illustrating a cycle of victimization.
5. The play's controversial legacy stems from its exploration of greed, raising discussions about stereotypes associated with Shylock as a Jewish moneylender and how this reflects broader societal attitudes.

Review Questions

• How does Shylock's greed influence his relationships with other characters in 'The Merchant of Venice'?
  • Shylock's greed drives a wedge between him and other characters like Antonio and Portia. His obsession with money and revenge leads him to pursue a bond that ultimately isolates him from society. This desire for financial gain prevents him from forming genuine connections, painting him as a tragic figure consumed by his need for wealth, thus illustrating the destructive nature of greed.
• Analyze how Shakespeare uses Shylock's character to comment on the nature of greed within the play.
  • Shakespeare crafts Shylock as a complex character whose greed not only reveals his personal flaws but also serves as a critique of society’s values. Through Shylock’s relentless pursuit of money at all costs, Shakespeare explores how greed corrupts moral integrity. The tension between Shylock's desire for justice through financial recompense and the contrasting themes of mercy among other characters highlights the multifaceted nature of greed and its implications on human interactions.
• Evaluate the impact of greed on Shylock's ultimate fate in 'The Merchant of Venice' and its implications for understanding the play's legacy.
  • Shylock's downfall is intricately tied to his unyielding greed, which blinds him to compassion and leads to his loss in court. By insisting on enforcing the bond rather than seeking compromise or understanding, he loses not only his wealth but also his identity within society. This outcome illustrates the tragic consequences of excessive desire, contributing to the play's controversial legacy by prompting discussions about societal perceptions of greed, particularly concerning Jewish identity in Elizabethan times.

Related terms

avarice: Avarice is an extreme form of greed, where the desire for wealth and material gain becomes all-consuming and leads to a lack of consideration for others.

covetousness: Covetousness is the longing for someone else's possessions or qualities, often linked with greed and envy, and can drive characters to immoral actions.

materialism: Materialism is the belief that physical possessions and wealth are of utmost importance, often leading to greedy behavior and dissatisfaction with non-material aspects of life.