Wednesday, October 29, 2014

"Taming of the Shrew" Film Review

"The Taming of the Shrew" is a play that features complicated relationships from all angles. The most recognizable one is between Petruchio and Katharina, who both have their similarities and differences. The 1967 film adaption, in my opinion, shows the features of Petruchio and Katharina's courtship and eventual marriage in a different light than the play.

The courtship begins when Petruchio learns of Katharina and how Signor Baptista, a very wealthy man, wants to marry her off because of her violent behavior. She even goes as far to hit her younger sister Bianca. Even though Bianca's role in the movie was largely reduced when compared to the play, Katharina's jealousy still shows. Petruchio finally meets Katharina and practically forces her to marry him after attempting to win her over with reverse psychology tactics.
After discussing the dowry, Petruchio and Katharina wed that following Sunday. Petruchio embarrasses Katharina by showing up late and she reconsiders the marriage. When she hesitates to say yes to her wedding vows, Petruchio kisses her and the priest says the vows.

The nature of the relationship is shown as Petruchio "taming" Katharina by disagreeing with her. He sees this as a way of discipline, and actually seeing this shows a darker undertone to his intentions. Katherina gives in to these "teachings" in the play, but in the movie it seems to be portrayed differently, that Katherina is toying with Petruchio and actually isn't becoming submissive.

Overall, I believe that because of the changes in the film adaption that it shows a different view on the "Taming of the Shrew". Some see it ass an offense to feminists, and some see it as a reflection of the view of the people in the 16th century but all can agree that it's a classic play.

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