The conveyance of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice into languages other than English involves a multifaceted process of linguistic and cultural adaptation. This process aims to render the original text accessible and comprehensible to audiences who do not speak or read English. An example is the German rendition, Der Kaufmann von Venedig, which seeks to capture the nuances of Shakespeare’s language while remaining faithful to the original plot and themes.
The significance of such adaptations lies in their ability to extend the reach and impact of Shakespeare’s work to a global audience. These versions facilitate cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of a pivotal work of English literature. Historically, the availability of these versions has enabled diverse societies to grapple with the play’s complex themes, including justice, mercy, prejudice, and societal inequalities, fostering dialogue and critical engagement.