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 37's not seeing the cities was detrimental to the overall episode, Taylor did not think the compromise was "a big deal." Casting for "The 37's" was done by Junie Lowry-Johnson, C.S.A., and Ron Surma. Lowry-Johnson was familiar with guest star Sharon Lawrence from their work together on "NYPD Blue". Lawrence later expressed the belief that the qualities of her "NYPD Blue" character ("somebody who had … a professional strength about them") was what clinched her role as Amelia Earhart. The actress was excited to be portraying a version of Earhart, saying that she relishes the professional relationships roles like these have—as