THE TAMING OF THE SHREW - ACT 1 SCENE 1 - WEEK 3

THE TAMING OF THE SHREW by William Shakespeare

Our reading opens up with an exchange between Lucentio and his servant Tranio. Lucentio is thrilled at arriving in Padua to study philosophy. Tranio entreats him not to be a bore - to not only concentrate on his studies and give up the fun things in life. I have to chuckle as I write this, because we all know what happens next. Baptista enters with his two daughters, sharp-tongued Katherine and beautiful, sweet tempered Bianca. Bianca has Gremio and Hortensio trailing behind her all googly-eyed, while a man won't get within 10 feet of Katherine. Lucentio sees Bianca and all thoughts of furthering his education go flying out the window. (Obviously he took Tranio's suggestion!) Baptista makes a decision. No one can marry Bianca until Katherine is married. (Did anyone feel a Leah/Rachel vibe?) Did you hear the audible gasp and see the looks that passed between the suitors? Katherine married? Who in the world would take her on? Meanwhile Baptista does allow the furthering of his daughters' education. The light bulb pops up over Lucentio's head. He and Tranio can switch spots, and he will tutor the fair Bianca. There is only one person that could ruin it for him at this stage and that is Biondello, his other servant. But how does he ensure that Biondello will keep the secret? He spins a deceitful tale and Biondello agrees to keep his secret. The scene ends with Sly (from the induction) looking at his (fake) wife and commenting on the play.

Couple of extra notes- note the role changing we are experiencing again already. Anybody else want to start addressing everyone in the house as "sirrah?" I know it is hailing a social inferior, but I just like calling it out!