67 pages • 2 hours read
The Taming of the Shrew
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Book Brief
291
Play • Fiction
Padua, Italy • Renaissance
1593
Adult
14+ years
NP1340L
Super Short Summary
The Taming of the Shrew is a Shakespearean comedy about Petruchio, who attempts to court and "tame" Katherina, an ill-tempered woman, so her desirable sister Bianca can marry. Disguises and mistaken identities ensue as suitors vie for Bianca's hand, eventually leading to multiple weddings and Katherina's transformation. The play satirizes societal norms and marital roles. Themes of gender roles, domestic abuse, and psychological manipulation are present.
Humorous
Romantic
Playful
Challenging
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
174,765 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew is praised for its witty dialogue and intricate character dynamics. Critics appreciate its humorous portrayal of courtship, though some argue its gender politics are outdated and problematic. The play remains a thought-provoking piece, offering both entertainment and insight into societal norms.
Who Should Read The Taming of the Shrew?
The ideal reader for William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew enjoys classic literature with complex characters, witty dialogue, and themes of gender and power dynamics. Fans of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice or George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion will appreciate the interplay of social roles and relationships in this comedic play.
174,765 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
291
Play • Fiction
Padua, Italy • Renaissance
1593
Adult
14+ years
NP1340L
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