Written by an anonymous author in 1594, approximately the same time as The Merchant of Venice, The Death of Vsury is a brief pamphlet condemning the lending of money for gain. The author not only explicitly defines usury in its various forms, but also cites the Bible as well as many "divines, civilians, canonists, statutes, schoole-men, olde and new writers" to support his claim that the taking of any interest is a disgrace to a Christian society.—KA
Anon., The death of vsury, or, the disgrace of vsurers Compiled more pithily then hitherto hath bene published in English. Wherein vsury is most lively vnfolded, defined, and confuted by divines, civilians, canonists, statutes, schoole-men, olde and new writers. VVith an explanation of the statutes now in force concerning vsury, very profitable for this present age., [Cambridge] : Printed by Iohn Legatt, printer to the Vniversitie of Cambridge. 1594. And are to be sold at the signe of the Sunne [by A. Kitson or R. Bankwork] in Paules Church-yard in London, 1594
STC 6443
View available documents
Death of Usury Title Page
Death of Usury p.2-3
Death of Usury p.4-5
Death of Usury p.6-7
Teacher Ideas
Kate Authenrieth / Saint Agnes Boys' High School / New York, NY / English
Have students briefly outline the three categories of usury as delineated in the text (it's an easy read). Using evidence from the text of The Merchant of Venice, explain which of the three forms of usury Shylock employs, and why.
For a link to Kate Authenrieth's lesson plan on usury in The Merchant of Venice, click here .
Jennifer Breen / Brookline High School / Brookline, MA / English
Using evidence from the text of The Merchant of Venice, specifically 4.1.396-406, explain whether you think Antonio is guilty of one of these forms of usury, and why.
Angela Chang / ACE Technical Charter High School / Chicago, IL / English
Students should think of modern examples of the three forms of usury as defined by the author of this pamphlet .
