Publisher's Synopsis
- "The Taming of the Shrew" is a comedic play by way of William Shakespeare that revolves around the courtship and marriage of contrasting personalities, Katherine and Petruchio. Set in the Italian town of Padua, the tale explores issues of gender roles, strength dynamics, and the nature of affection.
- The play opens with a rich nobleman named Baptista Minola, who has daughters: the beautiful and slight-mannered Bianca, and the pointy-tongued and rebellious Katherine, regularly referred to as the shrew. Baptista declares that Bianca can't marry till Katherine finds a husband, as he fears her sturdy personality will scare away suitors.
- Various suitors, consisting of Gremio and Hortensio, vie for Bianca's hand, however, Baptista's decree proves difficult. However, a newcomer named Petruchio arrives in Padua seeking a wealthy spouse. Hearing of Katherine's dowry, he units his attraction on her, despite her reputation.
- Petruchio meets Katherine and, undeterred by means of her fiery temper, resolves to woo and marry her. He employs unconventional methods to "tame" her, using tactics inclusive of hunger, sleep deprivation, and mental manipulation. Despite Katherine's initial resistance, she sooner or later succumbs to Petruchio's forceful persona and concurs to marry him.
- Meanwhile, Hortensio gives up on Bianca and marries a wealthy widow, while Lucentio, any other suitor, disguises himself as a Latin educator named Cambio to win Bianca's affection. They elope and marry in mystery.
