These productions directed by John Barton featured an oppressed but strong Shylock who hinted at a comeback at the end of the court scene.

Portia urges Shylock (Patrick Stewart) to show mercy in Act 4 Scene 1 of The Merchant of Venice 1978
Portia (Marjorie Bland) urges Shylock (Patrick Stewart) to show mercy in Act 4 Scene 1 of The Merchant of Venice 1978
Photo by Joe Cocks Studio Collection © Shakespeare Birthplace Trust Browse and license our images

The production opened at The Other Place in 1978 with Patrick Stewart as Shylock and was revived in 1981 at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre with David Suchet in the title tole, a performance for which he won an Oliver Award.

 

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