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The Taming of the Shrew

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1593

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Book Brief

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William Shakespeare

The Taming of the Shrew

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1593
Book Details
Pages

291

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Padua, Italy • Renaissance

Publication Year

1593

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

NP1340L

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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

4.2

174,765 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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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 Critics appreciate its humorous portrayal of courtship, though some argue its gender politics are outdated and problematic.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 this

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.

4.2

174,765 ratings

62%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Katherine

Known for her sharp tongue and fiery temperament, she struggles with family dynamics, particularly her father's favoritism toward her sister, Bianca. Her interactions with Petruchio reveal layers to her character beyond the reputation of a "shrew."

An experienced and witty man who devises a plan to "tame" Katherine, showcasing both humorous and madcap antics. His relationship with Katherine brings a shared sense of humor and complexity to the storyline.

Outwardly viewed as the gentle and modest sister, she navigates the play with a strategic eye on her desires. Her interactions with suitors reveal a more complex character than she first appears.

A young, romantic suitor of Bianca who is quick to fall in love. He participates in a disguise to win Bianca's affection while handling schemes that support his pursuit.

Lucentio’s clever and faithful servant who orchestrates the plan that brings Lucentio and Bianca together. He is adept at impersonating his master and functions as a witty and perceptive character.

The father of Katherine and Bianca who shows concern for their financial security in marriage. He navigates the suitors seeking his daughters' hands with a practical approach.

A wealthy but elderly suitor of Bianca, serving as a comic character. He is outclassed by younger and more appealing rivals in the pursuit of Bianca.

Petruchio’s friend and a suitor of Bianca, competing for her affection. His perspective on marriage contrasts with others, and he reflects on the events surrounding Petruchio and Katherine's relationship.

Appearing in the play’s frame narrative, this drunken peddler is humorously elevated to the role of a lord. His character reminds the audience of the theatrical nature of the events unfolding on stage.

Book Details
Pages

291

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Padua, Italy • Renaissance

Publication Year

1593

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

NP1340L

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