Blog #6

Most of the humor in Taming of the Shrew is based on romantic conflict. Choose one of the many conflicts between two (or three) characters where romance is in the air. Looking at particular passages in the play, discuss how is humor generated by the situation and what sort of subtext that humor may or may not be concealing.

Part 1)
So far, I am enjoying the play. Sometimes it is a little hard to follow, but it reads quickly. I definitely think that it would be much better to watch the actual play performed than to read it. I'm pretty sure that I don't understand all of the jokes. I can tell some lines are supposed to be funny, but I don't know why. I find it interesting that the women have no say in who their husband is, and that marriage is based on material things.

Part 2)
The interaction between Petruchio and Katharina is an interesting romantic conflict. Petruchio wants to marry Katharina because he wants her dowry. Although most men do not think that putting up with Katharina's wench-like personality is worth her dowry, Petruchio insists that he can tame her. Katharina wants absolutely nothing to do with Petruchio, and repeatedly insults him. Petruchio, however, does not deter. The meeting of these two extreme characters is humorous. While most women probably respond submissively to Petruchio dominating attitude, Katharina resists it. Even when Petruchio tries to be sweet to Katharina, she insults him:
PET. Nay, come, Kate, come; you must not look so sour.
KATH. It is in my fashion, when I see a crab.
PET. Why, here's no crab; and therefore look not sour.
KATH. There is, there is.
PET. Then show it me.
KATH. Had I a glass, I would.
PET. What, you mean my face? (35)
The humor in this passage shows the feisty personality of Katharina. She, most likely, will not be a typical housewife that will cater to her husband. Her humorous insults however, could be concealing her want for a romance and a husband. Maybe she does not know quite how to express her feelings.