Honest review of The Taming of the Shrew

by WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (Author)

Updated at: 21/01/2025

William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew is a vibrant comedy set in Renaissance Italy, revolving around the contrasting sisters Katherina and Bianca. Katherina, a spirited and independent woman labeled a "shrew," must be married before her gentler sister Bianca can find a husband. Petruchio, a cunning and ambitious man, undertakes the challenge of "taming" Katherina, leading to a witty and often contentious courtship. Their relationship explores complex themes of gender roles, societal expectations, and the dynamics of power within marriage. Through sharp dialogue and comedic situations, Shakespeare examines the nature of love, control, and the evolving definition of marital harmony, leaving the audience to ponder the true meaning of "taming" and its implications.

4.3 / 107 ratings

Review The Taming of the Shrew

My daughter's school assignment led us on a delightful, albeit occasionally bumpy, ride through Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. While I initially picked it up to help her with a few questions, I quickly found myself engrossed in the witty banter and tumultuous relationship between Katherina and Petruchio. The play's enduring appeal lies in its exploration of societal norms and gender roles, themes that remain relevant even centuries later. The comedic elements, while sometimes bordering on uncomfortable given our modern sensibilities, are undeniably effective. Shakespeare’s mastery of language shines through; the sharp dialogue crackles with energy, even when the situation feels jarring to a contemporary reader.

My experience with this particular edition was largely positive. The formatting, with its inline numbering and well-organized cross-references, was exceptionally helpful, reminding me of my well-worn Bible – a testament to its clarity and practicality. The inclusion of historical supplements and editorial notes added valuable context and depth, enriching my understanding of the play’s historical and linguistic background. The detailed explanations of Shakespearean English were incredibly useful, smoothing over the rough patches for those of us not fluent in the language of the Elizabethan era. While the formatting wasn’t ideal for text-to-speech software, it proved perfectly suitable for on-screen reading.

The story itself sparked a lot of discussion within our family. While I found myself frequently disagreeing with Petruchio’s methods – "taming" Katherina certainly isn't a model of modern relationship advice – the comedic aspect undeniably shines through. It's important to view the play within its historical context; acknowledging the era's different expectations and societal pressures helps contextualize the narrative. It's a comedy, after all, and its humor, even when unsettling, undeniably captivated me. We did wonder, though, whether the play is a genuine satire of societal expectations or a truly misogynistic portrayal of a marriage; the ambiguity adds another layer of intrigue and encourages deeper analysis.

Beyond the central relationship, the supporting characters contributed significantly to the play's overall charm. Bianca's quiet rebellion, masked by outward compliance, provided a fascinating counterpoint to Katherina's more overt defiance. The framing device with Christopher Sly, though a bit unconventional, added a surprising layer of meta-theatricality and further highlighted the play's exploration of illusion and reality. It was an unexpected delight. The sheer wit and clever wordplay sprinkled throughout the text elevated the experience far beyond a simple school assignment. It sparked countless conversations and deepened our appreciation for Shakespeare's genius. While the play certainly provokes modern discussion, it undeniably remains a powerful and compelling piece of dramatic literature.

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