Themes & patterns

The play exposes the hypocrisy of both Christians and Jews, as characters like Ferneze and Barabas use religion as a mask for greed, violence, and political manipulation, while the friars are shown as corrupt and self-serving.

Wealth is the central motivator for nearly every character, from Barabas's obsessive counting of gold to the Christian governor's seizure of Jewish assets, illustrating how money drives betrayal, murder, and political intrigue.

Barabas is systematically oppressed as a Jew, forced to pay half his wealth or convert, and the play reflects Elizabethan anti-Semitic stereotypes while also critiquing Christian persecution of Jews.

The prologue by Machiavel sets the tone for a world where cunning, deceit, and ruthless policy triumph over morality, as Barabas and the Christian rulers alike employ manipulation and violence to achieve power.

Barabas's quest for revenge after being stripped of his wealth leads to a cascade of betrayals, including the murder of his daughter, the poisoning of nuns, and the manipulation of rivals, showing how vengeance consumes all.

Characters constantly dissemble and wear masks: Barabas feigns conversion to Christianity, pretends to be a musician, and uses false promises to lure enemies, while Christians claim piety while acting cruelly.

The struggle for control of Malta between the Turkish empire, the Christian governor, and Barabas highlights how authority is seized through force, wealth, and strategic cunning rather than legitimate rule.

Barabas's relationship with his daughter Abigail is tested by his greed and revenge, as he uses her as a pawn and ultimately causes her death, while Abigail's loyalty to her father conflicts with her Christian conversion.