Examples Of Sexism In The Taming Of The Shrew

Sexist or Feminist

In the 17th century, women had limited opportunities and were more focused on building and bettering their families through housewifing. In the play The Taming of the Shrew by Williams Shakespeare, women are viewed as “chattel”, and objects used as a source of income. The main character, Katherine is tamed in order to become the woman her husband Petruchio wants her to be. Her confidence allows her to challenge (fight against) her close-minded society. The taming of the shrew displays sexism through gender stereotyping, patriarchy, and power.

The play has set a certain stereotype on how women should act and be. For example, Petruchio tames his wife Kate, who was a shrew, in order for her to become obedient and follow his rule. Taming is discrimination rather than discipline because it does not allow women to be themselves. Gender stereotyping enabled men have the mindset of women are supposed to be everything a man wanted. “But in the other’s silence do I see maid’s mild behavior and sobriety.” The fact Tranio explains Bianca is attractive not because she is well behaved and obedient to her father. This quote reflects how men expected women during the Elizabethan era to be.

For instance, “Faith, gentlemen, now I play a merchant’s part and venture madly on a desperate mart.” (Act 2, Scene 1) This quote discusses how Baptista is negotiating and making a deal about Bianca’s wedding because when is getting married he will be giving away his daughter and dowry. He has the power to decide since their society is patriarchal. Another example is when Petruchio says that “Have I not in my time heard lions roar?” after being asked by Grumio if he’s going to woo Kate. The quote is used as a metaphor to explain how he is a man and he can do anything because women are supposed to fear and to obey men in the patriarchal