Discuss the relationship between jessica and shylock. are we meant to sympathize with the moneylender’s daughter? does shakespeare seem ambivalent in his portrayal of jessica?

Relationship between Jessica and Shylock:

Jessica and Shylock’s relationship is not clearly defined; it is rather a hostile one for a daughter-father relationship. On a superficial level, she has respect and gratitude for him as it is seen by her concern for his father and his father is protective of her. However deep down Jessica is not very proud to be Shylock’s daughter as she doesn’t agree with his Jewish religious mannerism, his cruelty and stubbornness.

The reader may sympathies with her because she is living like a captive or a prisoner in her father’s house where she is supposed to be free, loved and not ashamed. She wishes to freely practice her Christian religion which according to her will bring much-needed freedom. The writer portrays Jessica as conflicted and uncertain about the way she is conducting herself in this situation.