Shylock is usually seen as a shark who feeds on those who need his help. However, he had virtually no choice as to what job he could do since Jews at that time and place were limited to being bankers. He was cunning enough to earn the money that was the only thing that ensured his family's survival in a world that tried to tear them apart. Furthermore, Vladek's money and belongings have saved his and Anja's lives many times, for example by using his resources on the black market to trade for additional food due to the meager rations they received and using his savings to keep the family afloat. family when his factory was taken over. . They cannot be blamed for their need for money as it is more than a means to happiness but has served as a means to survive through time and time.