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  • Essay / Sexism and Sexism in The Taming of the Shrew - 853

    Sexism in The Taming of the Shrew William Shakespeare's play, The Taming of the Shrew, is known for its parade of sexism throughout the play. The Taming of the Shrew is a play set in the Renaissance era where Baptista, a well-respected man, raises his two beautiful daughters: Katherine and Bianca. Bianca, the sweet and young child, is loved by her father and all the other men in society. Katherine, however, is the least liked woman in society due to her outspoken and blasphemous behavior, which is not considered ladylike behavior. The men of the town fight to win Bianca's sweet hand in marriage while trying to have nothing to do with Katherine. Baptista realizes that it is not right to marry his youngest daughter before his eldest, so he makes a proposal; Bianca can only marry if Katherine marries first. Lord Lucentio attracts Bianca's heart and falls deeply in love with her. Petruchio, a newcomer in town, is looking for a woman with a huge dowry, and he finds Kate to be the perfect match. Without taking into account all those who warn him of his malice. Petruchio and Lucentio overcome several obstacles until they both obtain the woman they desire. Sexism is depicted in Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew using the role of women in society during the Renaissance era. The first example of sexism depicted in Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew is the identification of the label society assigns to Katherine. Katherine is sharp-tongued, short-tempered, and prone to violence, especially against anyone who tries to marry her. Shakespeare writes: Come, come, wasp, I think you are too angry. If I am a wasp, beware of my sting. My remedy then is to tear it out. Yes, if the fool could find where he is... ... middle of paper ......, please, My hand is ready, may it make it easier for him (V .ii.140-183). Katherine's final words submit to her husband, the woman's role is to serve only the man and his desires in exchange for his protection. In conclusion, The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare depicts sexism in society by setting an example of the treatment and role of women in society. This is first demonstrated by identifying the labels given to describe Katherine and Bianca in society. Another example is the dominance that Petruchio has over Katherine now once he has married her. Marriage for a woman symbolizes ultimate obedience to her husband. The wife is now the property of the husband. It seemed that the two girls were far from different, but in reality they weren't after all. Katherine has been tamed and now obeys her new husband Petruchio indefinitely..