Characters
Who is the headstrong sister that is the focus of the film?
Katherina
What event sets off the plot involving Katherina and Petruchio?
The arrival of Petruchio to court Katherina at her family's home.
What role does the character of Petruchio play in Katherina's life?
Petruchio acts as both a husband and a "tamer," challenging Katherina's independence.
What motif is illustrated through the relationship between Katherina and Petruchio?
The expected power dynamics in traditional relationships
What is the purpose of the Induction in the play?
The Induction introduces the concept of role-playing and sets the comedic tone.
What is the name of the suitor who tries to win Katherina's heart?
Petruchio
Describe the method Petruchio uses to "tame" Katherina after they leave her family home.
Petruchio uses extreme behavior, such as denying food and sleep, to "tame" her.
How does the subplot involving Bianca contribute to the main storyline?
Bianca's subplot provides contrast and reflects societal views on marriage and obedience.
What does the story say about the social status of women during this time?
It highlights how marriage is often tied to wealth and social standing.
Describe the character of Sly and his role in the Induction.
Sly is a drunken beggar who becomes the unwitting audience for the play's events.
Identify the character who disguises himself as a tutor.
Lucentio
What is the significance of the wedding scene in the story?
It signifies the culmination of Katherina and Petruchio's relationship and societal expectations.
In which city does the story take place?
Padua
How does the story explore the concept of gender roles?
Gender roles are scrutinized, showing (and critiquing) expectations of men and women.
How does the Induction set the stage for the main plot?
It sets up the framing device for the main plot.
Who is Katherina's compliant sister?
Bianca
How does Katherina's attitude towards marriage evolve throughout the story?
Katherina transitions from being rebellious to showing submission and understanding of her "role."
Describe at least two ways in which Petruchio controls his wedding day to Katherina.
Arrives late, wears embarrassing clothing, and interrupts her attempt to deny him during the vows
Identify the motif of transformation and its relevance to Katherina's character.
Transformation is central to Katherina's arc, challenging societal norms.
What motifs are introduced in the Induction that resonate throughout the play?
Transformation, identity, and social class are introduced
Who is the servant that trades places with Lucentio?
Tranio
What is the climax of the story that leads to Katherina's final speech?
The husbands wager which of their wives is most obedient.
How do the other characters react to Katherina's transformation by the end of the film?
Other characters are surprised and sometimes skeptical about Katherina's change.
What commentary does the story provide on love and marriage?
The film critiques the nature of love and societal expectations in marriage.
What is the significance of the play-within-a-play structure in the Induction?
The play-within-a-play structure adds layers to the narrative, emphasizing performance and reality.