Shakepeare question?

Question

In Shakespeare's play, The Merchant of Venice, why does Antonio ask Shylock for a loan instead of a Christian? I'm confused. I might of just missed it, but the answer might help me write my debate paper on whether the play is anti semitic or not.

Answer 1

In the past Christians were forbidden the sin of usury and so they weren't much for providing loans.  Jews were not so constrained, so by default they became the loan merchants of the medieval world.  

Answer 2

Catholics were forbidden by the Church to lend money for interest.  So the Jews did it.  That is why Antonio asked Shylock.

Answer 3

Forgive me, but I have to tell you this:  you should have written "might have missed it."

Jews were limited to very few professions at that time due to prejudice.  Most moneylenders were Jewish.

Answer 4

shylock is asking for something that he doesnt acutally want