Language (The Taming of the Shrew)

This section explores the language used in The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare. The language in The Taming of the Shrew plays a crucial role in developing its themes and character relationships. Through the use of manipulation, defiance, disguise, and comic wordplay, Shakespeare explores complex issues of power, identity, and social norms. Understanding the nuances of the language helps to appreciate the play’s commentary on societal expectations and human behaviour.

Petruchio’s Language: Taming and Manipulation

Overview: Petruchio’s language is instrumental in his strategy to “tame” Katherina. His use of language reflects his manipulative and controlling nature.

Techniques:

Paradoxes and Contradictions: Petruchio often uses contradictory statements to confuse and control Katherina. For example, he insists that the sun is the moon to disrupt her sense of reality and force her to comply with his will.

Deprivation and Denial: By denying Katherina basic needs like food and sleep, Petruchio uses language to justify his actions as a means of helping her, thus further asserting his dominance.

Mocking and Sarcasm: Petruchio’s language is often laced with mockery and sarcasm, which he uses to belittle Katherina and undermine her resistance.

Examples:

“Good morrow, Kate; for that's your name, I hear.” (Act 2, Scene 1): This line shows Petruchio’s attempt to impose familiarity and control by asserting dominance from the outset.

“I will be master of what is mine own.” (Act 1, Scene 2): Petruchio declares his intention to dominate and control not just Katherina but the situation and his own desires.

Katherina’s Language: Wit and Defiance

Overview: Katherina’s language reflects her sharp wit and defiant nature. Her dialogue often reveals her frustration with societal expectations and her resistance to submission.

Techniques:

Sharp Tongue and Verbal Sparring: Katherina engages in verbal duels with other characters, particularly Petruchio. Her use of clever wordplay and biting remarks highlights her intelligence and independence.

Direct Address and Challenges: Katherina directly addresses her frustrations and challenges the expectations placed upon her, using strong and assertive language.

Subversion of Norms: Her language often subverts traditional gender norms, questioning and mocking the roles assigned to women.

Examples:

“I’ll see thee hanged on Sunday first.” (Act 1, Scene 1): This line illustrates Katherina’s defiance and her refusal to comply with societal expectations.

“Thy husband is thy lord, thy life, thy keeper.” (Act 5, Scene 2): In her final speech, Katherina uses language that reflects the expected norms of wifely submission, though its sincerity is debated.

The Use of Disguise and Deception

Overview: Language is also used to explore themes of disguise and deception, particularly in the subplot involving Lucentio and his servant Tranio.

Techniques:

Disguises and Pseudonyms: Characters adopt false identities and use different names, creating confusion and comedic situations. This is evident in Lucentio’s and Tranio’s deceptions to woo Bianca and negotiate with Baptista.

Mistaken Identity: The use of language to maintain these deceptions adds to the comedic elements of the play, as characters interact with mistaken identities and roles.

Examples:

Lucentio (as Cambio): His disguise as a tutor and the language he uses to woo Bianca reflects his need to navigate social barriers and pursue his romantic interests.

Tranio’s Impersonation: Tranio’s use of language to convincingly play the role of Lucentio demonstrates the fluidity of identity and the comedic potential of role-switching.

Comic Language and Wordplay

Overview: The play features significant use of comic language and wordplay, contributing to its comedic tone.

Techniques:

Puns and Double Entendres: The dialogue includes puns and double entendres, which are used to create humour and highlight character relationships.

Verbal Irony: Characters often speak ironically, with statements that are meant to be understood in a different way from their literal meaning.

Examples:

Hortensio’s and Lucentio’s Courting: Their exchanges with Bianca are filled with witty remarks and playful banter that enhance the comedic aspect of their courtship.

Grumio’s Comments: Grumio’s humorous observations and misunderstandings provide comic relief and highlight the social dynamics at play.

Themes Reflected in Language

Gender and Power: The language used by Petruchio and Katherina reflects the power dynamics of their relationship and the broader themes of gender roles and control.

Identity and Performance: The use of disguise and deception in the play’s language explores themes of identity and the roles individuals play in society.

Social Expectations: The characters’ language often reflects the social expectations of Elizabethan society, particularly regarding marriage and gender roles.