Question

why was the shylock character been translated is so many different ways by so many critics

Answer 1

Well the reason is that he is a strict jew and has a, you can call it desire for revenge.He doesn't accept thrice the amount of the bond which Bassanio is most willing to give but insists that Antonio pay his penalty by pound of flesh.This shows the villanous side to him.On the other hand he is a pitiable character because his daughter ceases to love him and runs away with something he loves i.e. his money.Therefore critics are sorry as well as judge him for his villany.

Hope this helps :)