For this week we are studying another of the most influential literary depictions of the problem of justice: the play The Merchant of Venice by the English playwright William Shakespeare. Student tasks for the week are to:

1. Listen to the following lecture. If you wish, you may follow along with this outline: Lecture 6 -- Shakespeare -- outline.pdf

2. Read the text of the play, which is available at: https://www.gutenberg.org/files/1515/1515-h/1515-h.htm

Note: Shakespeare is widely regarded as the greatest literary figure in the Western tradition, and an unparalleled genius in depicting the subtle challenges of the pursuit of justice. However, I know that his old style English is difficult, especially for people who are not native English speakers. Those who prefer to watch a recorded version of the play may watch one or both of the following performances, which are available through the university library (NOTE: you may need to be signed in to the university library in order for this link to work).

https://www-dramaonlinelibrary-com.ezproxy.ub.gu.se/video?docid=do-9781350997493&tocid=do-9781350997493_5715004840001

Students may also consult the following text, which gives an insightful account of justice in Merchant of Venice in dialogue with both the Jewish and Christian tradition: Schwarz--Loving justice, Living Shakespeare.pdf

3. Complete a discussion assignment by going to the discussion forum found here: Week 28 -- Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice

Note that there are two deadlines associated with this assignment. Students are required to post an answer to a discussion question by midnight on Wednesday 12 July. They must then have completed a discussion with classmates by posting at least three questions or comments in response to other students by midnight on Sunday 16 July.

4. If possible, it would be a good idea to begin the assigned reading for week 29. A response to a discussion question for week 29 will be due on Wednesday 19 July.

5. OPTIONAL: There will be a live Zoom seminar at 15.00 on Friday 14 July by way of the following link. If you have questions, it would be ideal if you can email then to me in advance at martin.westerholm@lir.gu.se, but you can of course simply show up with or without questions if you wish!

https://gu-se.zoom.us/j/4776982164