The Merchant of Venice I believe that S. T. Coleridge's phrase "representation of men in all ages and all times" applies to this play because I feel that the characters in this play, even the female ones, portray universal elements of the nature of man. One of these elements is honor, which Antonio displays bravely. A second element is the cockiness so often associated with men, this element got Antonio in a heap of trouble. …showed first 75 words of 819 total…

…showed last 75 words of 819 total…after the women have asserted themselves as more cunning. Upon examination of these elements one can easily draw the conclusion that Shakespeare is focusing on male behavior. This play makes use of stereotypes that criticize men as well as points out good qualities that men possess, like charisma and honor. I believe that S. T. Coleridge's phrase fits very well because Merchant of Venice is a "representation of men in all ages and all times."