67 pages 2 hours read

William Shakespeare

The Taming of the Shrew

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1593

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Before You Read

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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.

Reviews & Readership

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 Critics appreciate its humorous portrayal of courtship, though some argue its gender politics are outdated and problematic.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

Recommended

Reading Age

14+years

Lexile Level

NP1340L

Book Details

Period

Elizabethan Era

Genre

Play: Comedy / Satire

Humor

Education

Themes

Relationships: Marriage

Identity: Gender

Society: Class

Topics

Education