Jessica (The Merchant of Venice) Shylock's line's adherence to the Jewish faith. Literary critics have historically viewed the character negatively, highlighting her theft of her father's gold, her betrayal of his trust, and apparently selfish motivations and aimless behaviour. Since the end of the 20th century their views have been more moderate and nuanced, pointing to an alternate reading that allows her actions to be motivated by love and generosity, and being driven by Shylock's own tyrannical and immoral behaviour. The central plot of "The Merchant of Venice" is relatively straightforward: Antonio borrows money from Shylock to help his friend, Bassanio, court Portia, but, through
The Shakespeare Code screaming youth and apparently rip him to shreds. Meanwhile, the TARDIS lands around Southwark in 1599. The Doctor, who promised to take Martha on one trip, takes her to a performance of "Love's Labour's Lost" at the Globe Theatre. At the end of the play, William Shakespeare announces a forthcoming sequel entitled "Love's Labour's Won". Lilith uses a voodoo doll to influence Shakespeare to declare that the new play will premiere the following evening. The Doctor and Martha go to the inn where Shakespeare is staying. The Doctor introduces himself with his psychic paper but it appears blank to Shakespeare,