On the other hand, she does not refer to her own need of hunger but defends the cook’s mistake. Question: Is it a possibility that Kate from Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew" is putting on a complying act because she knows that by pretending to submit, she can get what she wants? Zorba the Geek, via Wikimedia Commons Taming of the Shrew Essay In The Taming of the Shrew, Kate goes through a fantastic transformation from a harsh spitfire to a spirited yet submissive wife. Answer: Honestly, I believe she always was. Petruchio began his famous process of taming his bride. Question: Should we still study and celebrate this play? Bianca recognizes this cruel act as jealousy and a desire to be loved when she states, “Is it for [Gremio] you do envy me so?” (VII.i.18). There are hints that the marriage of Petruchio and Kate may not have exactly met these standards, but for acceptance they attempted to make it look that way. The last part of her description shows the sincerity in what she is saying. The Taming of the Shrew: Critical Analysis The Taming of the Shrew is one of the earliest comedies written by sixteenth and seventeenth century English bard, William Shakespeare. 253-264. Detroit: Gale Research, Inc., 1989. It was written between 1593 and 1594 and it is one of Shakespeare’s earliest comedies. In the early 1600s, John Fletcher wrote a sequel called The Tamer Tamed in which Petruchio is himself tamed by a new wife. A really great hub about a fantastic play, one i would dearly love to see in London on stage some day, thanks for sharing, voted up, Lee. Congrats on HOTD, too! 310-311. The “one that cares for thee,” indicates her acknowledgment, despite Petruchio’s crazy antics, that he genuinely cares for her. It’s Kate’s desire for love with Petruchio’s help that leads her to show love and empathy without losing her feisty attitude. Personally, I believe that the husband and wife have a symbiotic relationship. That answer probably will not be in any textbook on the Taming of the Shrew, but that is my own personal opinion. Poor Kate – Petruchio shows up late for the wedding ceremony and then proceeds to act like wild and crazy when he arrives. Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” Analysis August 26, 2020 by Essay Writer Since Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” was written in 1592 (Royal Shakespeare Company), there have been many adaptations of his works created in “an overwhelming variety of ways,” (Fischlin & Fortier 1). Her speech at the end is over the top and is often thought to be mocking and sarcastic. The Taming of the Shrew Act 4, Scene 1 Summary & Analysis | LitCharts. Petruchio’s therapy for Kate has been compared to holding up a mirror and letting the shrew see herself. Kate proceeded to agree with him, to which, of course, he changed his mind back. She is capable of being a submissive wife but be her own person, as well. This admission goes further than just recognition of a husband’s willingness to work hard and to provide for his wife; she also claims that her desire to be submissive and loving is “too little payment for so great a debt” (V.ii.160). This is really well-written. The play begins with a framing device, often referred to as the induction, in which a mischievous nobleman tricks a drunken tinker named Christopher Sly into believing he is actually a nobleman himself. They are allowed to bring up their concerns, but they should do so in a respectful way. HIRE verified writer $35.80 for a 2-page paper. Bianca, on the other hand was very sweet and charming and beautiful; for these reasons many suitors wooed her. Whilst his motives remain largely ambiguous, he does reveal some clues in his soliloquy, where he speaks directly and openly to the audience. Shakespearean     Criticism. Like many other of Shakespeare's comedies, The Taming of the Shrew features a woman as one of the story's chief protagonists. He would also serve her, just as Jesus served the church. I love this play and have seen it several times in several different performances! With her new understanding, Kate’s actions and words begin to change, but not her personality. Kate was not the conventional shrew, because most “shrews” were women that were already married and dominated their husbands in their relationship. Ed. That being said, humans love to watch Home Alone and laugh at the cruel treatment of the two thieves, so it was intended to bring humor by being way over the top. Petruchio took the stance that Kate was his property, as he pointed out in the second scene of act three: 230   She is my goods, my chattels, she is my house. The Taming of the Shrew essays are academic essays for citation. Analysis. Do you have a degree in English literature. The book is a comedy, mainly about Petruchio and his wife Kate. Because Petruchio was a male, though, his violence was more accepted by society than was Kate’s (Kahn 414). Here we see Kate coming to understand that, when she agrees to let Petruchio have his way, she reaps the benefits. Petruchio playfully hints that since she won’t kiss him in public, they should go home. She uses the expression “God forbid,” which emphasizes her feelings against being ashamed of him. This appeal to her intelligence is why Kate’s will was not broken, but rather changed to meet Petruchio’s mold to some extent (Nevo 263). Though it is the middle of the day, Petruchio comments on how brightly the moon shines. It is supposed to be written between 1590 and 1592. The original text plus a side-by-side modern translation of every Shakespeare play. The patriarchal styles that the marriages took on during the Elizabethan age are very well represented in Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. I loved my Shakespeare class in college, which is what this was originally written for. She still has the passion and energy she began with, but with a realization that her actions affect others. Few women, now and especially during Shakespeare’s time, would be willing to risk humiliation for themselves or others, unless they have a strong personality. Petruchio wanted to show Kate how mean she was, by beating her at her own game. A turning point in her selfishness occurs when the servants bring out the “burnt” meat (IV.i.151). Check out our revolutionary side-by-side summary and analysis. Adapting the Shrew. The Taming of the Shrew study guide contains a biography of William Shakespeare, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. Not only has her love for Petruchio ultimately blossomed, but her ability to empathize has as well, which again is seen through her word choices. The whole plot of the play drives toward these goals. Having trouble understanding The Taming of the Shrew? The book is a comedy, mainly about Petruchio and his wife Kate. Congrats on the HOTD! Question: What was Kate and Petruchio's connection during their first encounter in "Taming of the Shrew"? A detailed analysis of gender roles, the main theme of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, as well as other motifs such as appearance vs. reality and animal imagery. The Taming of the Shrew has basic similarities to other Shakespearean comedies and can be seen as following in the tradition of ancient Roman comedy, especially those of the playwright Plautus, whose plays are filled with clever slaves tricking their masters and star-struck young lovers whose plans for marriage are delayed and obviated but ultimately fulfilled. This transformation is due to Petruchio’s over-the-top kindness towards Kate and cruelty towards all others. She has a passion for the written word and loves literature. The Taming of the Shrew is a comedy by William Shakespeare, believed to have been written between 1590 and 1592.The play begins with a framing device, often referred to as the induction, in which a mischievous nobleman tricks a drunken tinker named Christopher Sly into believing he is actually a nobleman himself. Your online site for school work help and homework help. She is courted by both Hortensio and Lucentio, who dress as tutors to get near her. This question is much like what a child would ask their mother or best friend. The play Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare, written in 1590-1592, takes place in Italy. 413-419. Perfect for acing essays, tests, and quizzes, as well as for writing lesson plans. The earliest record of it being performed on stage is in 1593 or 1594. Katherine Minola is a fiery, spirited woman, and as such, the male dominated world around her doesn't quite know what to do with her. Analysis. The larger framework involves a drunkard named Christopher Sly, who stumbles out of an inn and falls into a deep sleep. In Act Two, Scene One, when Kate ties her sister’s hands, she questions Bianca of all the suitors that are after Bianca. Learn exactly what happened in this chapter, scene, or section of The Taming of the Shrew and what it means. The Taming of the Shrew) ist eine Komödie von William Shakespeare. When she expresses her feelings towards a woman’s obedience, it is not only a representation of what is expected of a woman but what men are expected to do for their wives as well. Taming of the Shrew, RSC, 2003 Thelma Alberts from Germany and Philippines on June 22, 2015: Very well reviewed. Question: How did Bianca become the shrew at the end of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew"? Her spoiled tendencies did not shine through until the end, as we see the contrast of Kate's transformation and Bianca's normal state. Petruchio is one of two central characters (along with Katherine) in Shakespeare’s play, The Taming of the Shrew.. Petruchio is a wealthy young bachelor looking for an equally rich wife. Baptista Minola. Kate still is able and willing to fight, which is apparent in her monologue. A detailed analysis of gender roles, the main theme of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, as well as other motifs such as appearance vs. reality and animal imagery. Analysis. Katherina is a very different main character than most of Shakespeare’s heroines. Vol. As far as obeying, he also would not expect her to obey anything that was not in her best interest. Bianca. In one sense, she is hungry and will say anything to be allowed to eat the meat, regardless of its state. It only takes seconds! All of the men who desired Bianca needed somebody to marry Kate, as it was customary for the older daughter to be married before the young one. The noblemen give Sly a disguised young page as his supposed wife. For instance, once the marriage ceremony ends, she desires to stay for the reception, whereas Petruchio wants to leave. She once again complied in front of the surprised crowd. Answer: It is debatable whether she truly allows herself to be tamed. I personally believe that yes, we should definitely study this play as it helps give insight into the past. Untitled Essay. Perfect for acing essays, tests, and quizzes, as well as for writing lesson plans. Sulabha Dhavalikar from Indore, India on June 22, 2015: You are simply brilliant. Bonnie’s Analysis of The Taming of the Shrew. Logan, IA: The     Perfection Form Company, 1986. It was Kate’s submission to Petruchio which makes him a man, finally and indisputably (Kahn 419). The characters are really similar to each other because in Taming of […] In the Elizabethan era, there was a huge demand for new entertainment, and The Taming of the Shrew would have been produced immediately following the completion of the play. Then when Petruchio arrives, Kate finally finds someone who gives her compliments. Tutor and Freelance Writer. I think I know what you are trying to get at. Many people get stuck on the Bible stating that a woman is supposed to submit to their husband and miss the rest of that verse where it states that a man should love the wife as Christ loves the church. The play opens with a device referred to as an introduction. You did a wonderful job with it. It has lasted many years, and is still as great as the original. Angela is an avid reader who studied English Literature in college. A summary of Part X (Section4) in William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. She shows this by explaining this behavior through a husband’s eyes. The Taming of the Shrew study guide contains a biography of William Shakespeare, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis. The acting done by Kate and Petruchio lived up to the patriarchal ideals of their time, but yet the reader is led to believe that in the future, there will still be opposition in their relationship. Metaphor Analysis Point of View Point of view refers to the character through whom the story is told. In the last scene, as she gives her speech to Bianca and the widow, this new compassion is again revealed. I think submit gets a bad rap in our society today, because it's not completely understood or respected. Answer: They both were very quick-witted and intelligent. Answer: I believe the moral of the story is to about true character. Summary Read a Plot Overview of the entire play or a scene by scene Summary and Analysis. For the first time in Kate’s life, she sees others being verbally abused by someone other than herself, as Petruchio presents himself as an even worse shrew than herself. I think if a man is truly loving his wife as Jesus loved the church, then her best interest would always be in the forefront of his mind; therefore, he would not just expect her to serve him solely, but take care of herself as well. Detroit: Gale Research, Inc., 1989. ATTENTION: Please help us feed and educate children by uploading your old homework! Scott, Mark W. and Williamson, Sandra L., et al., ed. It is a good example that we have to open ourselves up, deal with the bitterness and gradually accept who we are. Submitting is not the same as obeying. This comedic farce, by William Shakespeare, creates an elegant depiction of a modern life and romantic love with all of its masks and pretensions. In a sense, Kate and Petruchio had what one might call a symbiotic relationship; that is, they both had a strong need for each other, which is somewhat paradoxical, as both of them were fiercely independent characters. Shakespeare hat das Werk vermutlich spätestens im … In the introduction, an impish nobleman beguiles a drunken man Christopher Sly to believe that he is a nobleman. They will demonstrate the uncertainty surrounding the origins of texts and the evolution of plays with respect to their cultural atmosphere of the original Lear and Shrew. Even in the final scene, Kate never showed signs of being a weak character, but rather the ability to be strong in any way she needs to be. Evans, Bernard. Analysis. Analysis and discussion of characters in William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew We’ve discounted annual subscriptions by 50% for our End-of-Year sale—Join Now! Perfect for acing essays, tests, and quizzes, as well as for writing lesson plans. I've been teaching taming of the Shrew for decades and have come to the position that Kate's speech is the third of a series of contracts in the play, the first two being the covenant between Petruchio and Baptista, while the second is the fraudulent contract with the supposed Vincentio. Analysis and discussion of characters in William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew We’ve discounted annual subscriptions by 50% for our End-of-Year sale—Join Now! Although her development is very evident from an outside perspective, she is essentially the same person after Petruchio’s taming as she is before. Because of this, she seeks it through childish means such as petty questions and fighting. The Taming of the Shrew is one of the earliest comedies written by sixteenth and seventeenth century English bard, William Shakespeare. Congrats your Hub of the Day award for an interesting post filled with food for thought. This is the best analysis I've seen; everyone today seems to be worried about offending others, while this simple takes into account what the script actually says in full, not in part. Need help with Act 4, Scene 1 in William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew? Despite Kate’s apparent anti-feminist talk, Kate has not become a completely broken, weak-willed woman. William Shakespeare's Richard III: Summary & Analysis, Cite this article as: William Anderson (Schoolworkhelper Editorial Team), "The Taming of the Shrew: Critical Analysis," in. However, Ruth Nevo pointed out that Kate did not only win the wager, but her speech testifies a generosity worth far more than the two hundred crowns of the wager (264). icon-close Sometimes we have to look beyond our first impression of people to truly know them and their character. Many scholars feel that, despite Kate’s submissiveness in the closing scene of the play, she would continue to be a strong opposition for Petruchio. Angela Michelle Schultz (author) from United States on March 07, 2010: I am careful to use the word submit, because there is a duality that is going on. This is Baptista's way of ensuring that someone… read analysis of Baptista Minola. While in this society, a woman is asked to be obedient, it is not without men serving women as well. Shakespeare, William. 825-833. Women are allowed to disagree with their husband. New     York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. The play that Sly watches makes up the main story of The Taming of the Shrew. Analysis. Sly wants to be left alone with his wife, but the servants tell him that a troupe of actors has arrived to present a play for him. If she had meant it to be sarcastic, this admission of being cared for would seem out of place and misguided. Now, pray thee, love, stay” (V.ii.139). The shrewish Kate, who was known to have a sharp tongue, very adequately filled his need for another powerful character in a relationship (Kahn 419). Detroit: Gale Research, Inc., 1989. the key in understanding this is in the antithesis of her conditions. A very good critical study. When she refuses the first time, he asks if it’s because she is embarrassed of him. Whenever Kate would throw her tantrums, Petruchio would throw them right back, in perhaps even more exaggerated form. Petruchio’s goal with Kate is to tame her. Her quarrelsome behavior is not entirely due to her lack of being loved, but also her self-absorption. Angela Michelle Schultz (author) from United States on January 25, 2017: Thank you very much. Children should obey their parents. As tiredness, hunger, and frustration set in on Kate, her wildcat personality began to weaken noticeably. Her groom, Petruchio, has nearly as much mystery surrounding him as does Kate herself. Once married, Kate becomes his legal "property," so she has to do what Petruchio says. Their life is richer as a result of one another. Kate also has learned how to love by being loved. What a story on transformation, a story at play each day in so many lives. and subjects. Get a verified writer to help you with Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” Analysis. Petruchio showed up to the wedding late and in strange attire, but nevertheless they were married that Saturday. She may have stopped her temper tantrums and her cruelty towards others, but she is still feisty. Kate’s willingness to kiss Petruchio is more than just a desire to stay at her father’s house; her word choice proves this, which she reveals when she calls him “love,” before she kisses him. Taming of the Shrew Essay May 31, 2014. She argues her case through a childish plea stating, “Now if you love me, stay” (III.ii.204). As the action opens, he is being thrown out of an alehouse. The Globe Theatre that Shakespeare created has been performing Taming of the Shrew since its early days. Here's an in-depth analysis of the most important parts, in an easy-to-understand format. https://schoolworkhelper.net/the-taming-of-the-shrew-critical-analysis/, Robert Bolt’s A Man For All Seasons: Summary & Analysis, Joyce Oates’ “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”: Arnold Friend Analysis, Yevgeny Yevtushenko’s Babi Yar: Summary & Analysis, Barbara Kingsolver’s “Animal Dreams”: Alice Analysis, Wolves: Habitat, Characteristics, Behaviors, Mesoamerican Cultures: Olmecs, Mayas, Aztecs, William Carlos Williams & The Young Housewife, Oliver Twist: Characters, Setting, Style, Audience and Diction, Augustus’ Role in Shaping the Roman Empire, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible: Abigail Williams Analysis, Hiro Murai’s “Guava Island”: Film Analysis, Alice Dunbar Nelson: Poet, Essayist and Activist. Many critics have pointed out that the wager scene is dominated by reversals: quiet Bianca talked back, while the shrewish Katherina came across as an obedient wife (Kahn 418). Das Werk spielt in der italienischen Stadt Padua und handelt von dem reichen Kaufmann Baptista und den Umständen der Heirat seiner beiden Töchter Bianca und Katharina. Harold Bloom. When Petruchio began to woo Kate, everybody was rather surprised, but Signior Baptista agreed when Petruchio wanted marry her on Saturday of the week he met her. The fact that she is willing to go along with his outlandish remarks and humiliate a man she has never met proves she has not lost her spunk.