Act Three Flashcards
Baptista, on Petruchio humiliating Katherina on their wedding day. Acknowledges the ridiculous behaviour of Petruchio but contradicts himself by continuing to insult Katherina. Could be a defence of his daughter, as anyone would snap under these conditions
“For such an injury would vex a very saint. Much more a shrew of thy impatient humour”
Tranio, on himself and Lucentio disguising themselves. Reinforces the social hierarchy as Tranio finds it unnatural that Lucentio is dressed as a servant and himself as a lord. Demonstrates a positive relationship between master and servant, contradicting the abusive one between Petruchio and Grumio
“Not so well apparelled as I wish you were”
Petruchio, after arriving late to his own wedding. Mocks Kate, acting as if he’s missed her after embarrassing her. Could also be an example of his eccentric behaviour
“But where is Kate? I stay too long from her”
Gremio, describing Katherina and Petruchio’s wedding. Petruchio is shown to be worse than Katherina even though she receives harsher treatment for the same behaviour
“Tut, she is a lamb, a dove, a fool to him”
Petruchio, before leaving the wedding celebrations with Katherina. Demonstrates his rudeness and arrogance that goes largely unquestioned. Humiliates Katherina again in order to tame her, and mocks her when most people see her as unattractive. Could be seen as him taking offence to people seeing his decision to marry Katherina as mad and so overperforms insanity
“Be mad and merry - or go hang yourselves. But for my bonny Kate, she must with me”
Petruchio, explaining his plan to tame Katherina. Views his new wife as property with no autonomy. Objectifies her in a different way to Bianca, comparing her to more everyday objects, insulting her even while dehumanising her. Katherina’s purpose in life is to provide comfort to her husband
“She is my goods, my chattel; she is my house”
