Patriarchy In The Taming Of The Shrew

The Taming of the Shrew, an engaging novel written by William Shakespeare, which was originally published in 1594. This specific play is based on two sisters where the youngest daughter, Bianca, is not to be married until her shrew of an older sister Katherine is. Bianca feels this proposition is completely unfair due to the fact she knows know one will ever want to marry Katherine. That is until Petruchio comes along and decides they will be married. His relationship centers around “taming" Katherine and forcing her into the traditionally submissive role of a wife. The Taming of the Shrew examines gender roles and patriarchy and how they are depicted in sixteenth-century relationships. In the sixteenth century, certain duties were expected of both man and wife. Men were expected to be the dominant figure and women as submissive. Men held all power in relationships and marriages, while women were expected to answer to them. Women were supposed to

Not only was she a shrew but Gremio called her "Katherine the curst, A title for a maid of all titles the worst” (Shakespeare 1.2.130-131). Being named a curst is the worst fate a woman can suffer but Katherine did not care. She was considered devilish as she was devious, loud, and honest. Kate's shrewish behavior and attitude leave her without suitors and lack of relationship with her family. Petruchio comes into town in search of a rich wife. "I come to wive it wealthily in Padua; If wealthily, then happily in Padua” (Shakespeare 2.1. 75-76). Petruchio does not care if the woman is ugly, old, or shrewish, as long as she has a large dowry. When the couple first meets, Katherine insults him multiple times to deter him. Petruchio says “will you, nill you, I will marry you” (Shakespeare 2.1.13). This is inferring that Baptista has already agreed for Katherine to be his wife and she has no say in the