Spends all of his money on harlots

I been meaning to read and understand Alan Bandy’ article on “Methodology for Determining OT Allusions” in an attempt at understanding what are truly allusions.

Susan McLean notes: “The word ‘Prodigal’ appears more often in The Merchant of Venice than in any other play of Shakespeare's, yet the relevance to the play of the parable of the Prodigal Son has excited little critical attention.” The Merchant of Venice, a Christian comedy, is constructed around opposite value systems. This is probably true for many of Shakespeare’s plays.

In borrowed lawyer robes, Portia proclaims:

“The quality of mercy is not strain'd,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath. It is twice blest;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”

Shakespeare’s story of the prodigal sons and daughters is about transgression and forgiveness. It may also provide a clue to understanding OT allusions.

copyrighted 2005

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