What is a shylock?

Shylock is a character in William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice". He is a Jewish moneylender who is portrayed as ruthless and greedy. He is often viewed as a tragic figure due to the anti-Semitic treatment he receives from the Christian characters in the play. Shylock is best known for his demand of a pound of flesh as collateral for a loan, which ultimately leads to the climactic trial scene where he is denied his bond. The portrayal of Shylock has been a source of controversy over the years due to its perceived anti-Semitic undertones.