How is the theme of social clashes explored in The Merchant of Venice?

I wonder if this question can be answered with reference
to the way that Venice is presented as a society made up of different social classes but
also different ethnic groupings. Of course, the central social "clash" would be the way
in which Jews are treated and abused by Venetian society, as is shown through Antonio's
mistreatment of Shylock. Venice is presented as a society that is definitely not
characterised by harmony and unity. Consider the charges that Shylock brings against
Antonio in Act I scene 3, which is of course when Antonio tries to borrow money from
him:

You call
me misbeliever, cutthroat dog,

And spit upon my Jewish
gaberdine...

Such lines speak
of blatant abuse and division between the various social elements of Venetian society,
which was famed as a centre for merchants and tradesmen. Even in the famous court scene
of Act IV scene 1, Shylock clearly is not pleading his case in front of an impartial
Duke. Let us remember that the Duke himself describes Shylock as "A stony adversary, an
inhuman wretch / Uncapable of pity, void and empty / From any dram of mercy." Social
clashes are evident through the obvious prejudice that exists in this society against
Jews, who are clearly treated in a terrible way by all
concerned.