Taming of the Shrew

ACT 1

 

Describe each character:

 

■Katherine- Rude, Very Mouthy, Independent, totally opposite of her sister.

■Bianca- modest, sweet, beautiful, much like Desdemona in Othello.

■Gremio- very similar to Hortensio by thinking strategies and they also have the same purpose within the play. He is a bit more selfish in my opinion.

■Hortensio- creative, open minded, knows how to get what he desires even if it means helping the enemy.

■Petruchio- Only cares about materialistic things, brave, confident.

■Lucentio- Clever, intelligent, a go getter per say because he is not afraid to go after what he desires.

■Compare Katherine and Bianca to modern day people- Katherine would be quite similar to Mrs. Rich because she does not let others change her own opinion or outlook on things and she will speak what is on her mind. A modern day Bianca reminds me of Eran because she is quiet and beautiful.

 

 

1.       The Induction portrays role-playing. Who acts the part of whom? Why? How does such role-playing address issues of gender and class? What effects might these representations have on the play?

Lucentio dresses as a Tutor for Bianca while his servant dresses as him. The lord dresses as a servant while they dress the Sly up as a lord. The page dresses up as the lord’s wife. Role playing most certainly addresses gender and class roles because a woman could not be an actor and normally low class men play the roles as a female due to the embarrassment. This affects the play because it shows that one does not always appear as they seem.

 

2.        From the outset, we learn from Bianca's suitors that Katherine is the less desirable of the two sisters. Examine and question this claim. How are Bianca and Katherine different? What makes Katherine rather than Bianca the shrew?

Bianca is very modest, sweet, well mannered, and beautiful.  Katherine is out spoken, opinionated, rude and complete opposite of her sister. Katherine is more of the shrew because she is the least desirable. The shrew is normally the one that no guy wants and plenty of men want Bianca.

 

ACT 2 & 3

 

 

 

1.        

How does Petruchio "tame" Kate? Consider how he seems to define their roles.

 Petruchio tames Kate by acting in her manner. He ignores what she says and carries on with his own idea of things. He makes it clear that he is her husband and she is his possession now therefore she must obey him.

2.       How does Katherine act in the scenes where she says little or nothing? For example, in Act 2, scene 1, how does Katherine behave when Petruchio reports on his success in wooing Kate and in their plans for marriage? Because the text provides little explanation, you must decide how she would act based on your interpretation of her character from previous scenes.

Katherine seems to be more obedient however; she still has her amount of sass contributed. I could imagine her rolling her eyes and looking at Petruchio as if he is a fool. One can already infer she seems to be in the midst of being tamed.

 

3.       Imagine viewing this play in the Elizabethan era. Identify 4 moments of comedy.

-          When Petruchio arrived in foolish clothes to his wedding.

-          When Petruchio and Kate argue back and forth calling each other names.

-          When Lucentio makes jokes about how Hortensio can’t tune his own instrument.

-          When Kate has her sister tied up and harassing her.

 

 

4.       Disguise is a major theme in TotS. What famous Bible story involves deceit and disguise? 

In the Bible it talks about how the Devil was once disguised as an angel when in reality he was evil and only wanted to over throw God. He tried to deceive God and take away all his good doings, however the good triumphed the bad and all was well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACT 4

 

1.       How is Petruchio's masculinity represented? Examine his treatment of servants, Kate, etc.

 Petruchio shows his masculinity by downing those under his command and using harsh words as well as force. He makes himself feel and look superior by threatening others around him. He treats his wife and servants in a poor manner.

 

 

 

2.       Many critics mark the sun/moon scene in the road to Padua (scene 5) as the turning point in the play which indicates Kate's taming. What is different about this scene? If she is tamed, what is she submitting to? Is it really a "submission," or can it be interpreted in other ways?

This scene is different because Kate finally does not argue with Petruchio when he makes foolish statements. She is not necessarily submitting herself to being his wife or loving him, but she is submitting to survival. She only accepts his harsh words because she wants food and sleep. It is not because she wants to; it is because she has to.

 

 

ACT 5

 

 

 

1.       Analyze Kate's final speech. Is she sincere or ironic? Should we take her at her word? Or should we imagine a gap between what she says and what she means? Does the context of her words change their meanings? What are different possibilities in performing this scene?

 

Kate tries to implicate sincerity in her words to prove to her husband she lives to serve him; however there is a gap between what she says and what she means. She does not mention being a good wife by loving her husband but by serving him. She has no desire to be his wife but he takes care of her and she knows she has no other choice. While performing this scene, Kate could show that she will not back down to her husband’s tone and then all the women would make a point to their husbands. Instead, Petruchio makes a point to the other women, men and Kate.

 

 

2.       What happens to the power dynamics in this scene–between men and men, women and women, men and women?

The men are trying to show each other that they control their wives more than the other. In other words, the one that can make his wife jump whenever he asks is the man that is most powerful. The women believe they have the power to show their husbands they are not a stepping stool, however in the end the wife that is more obedient tends to be the one thought highly of. Men want to show they over power their wives because in that time period, the wife was to look at her husband for all guidance and obey him to the fullest.

"O" Movie Review

By: Jocelyn Reynolds

The movie “O” was written based upon the Shakespeare play Othello. The plot, characters, and the overall theme was very similar between the two. The movie was very interesting due to the excitement and entertainment from the beginning through to the end, just as the play was when Shakespeare showed it in real life at the theater. The plot stayed the same by using the handkerchief/scarf as a device to cause mischief between the characters. The characters share the same qualities and thinking skills as the one used in Othello. The themes from the movie go hand in hand with the play. He uses Jealousy, Lust, True Love, Betrayal, Gender Roles, Racism, etc. I highly encourage anyone who is interested in the play, to also watch the movie in order to gain a better understanding. The modernized changes in details will give this generation a more relatable connection with the overall message set for mankind. The play and movie is so close in comparison, that it is almost identical. However, they are some differences in the movie that one can notice right away after viewing. The movie introduces new evils from the world such as rape, drugs, shootings, and very graphic curse words. In the generation we live in today, the movie does not display anything that one does not hear of already happening. I believe anyone who is mature enough to accept that these things are in our society should be able to watch it and enjoy it for its true purpose. These harsh things are not to brain wash the public but to make them more aware that not all things in life are roses and candy. Many believe this movie is very controversial and to some extent I agree. O came out during the time when College shootings, sex content, and other harsh things were avoided by the public. However, one should not turn their back to these issues. Children should not be allowed to watch this movie, but teens and young adults need to use this as a tool to understand not only the play by William Shakespeare but to understand that these things can happen in the world they live in. The movie is rated R, which is very suitable for the content. The movie was taken in great consideration, and props should be given to them for that reason. The actors chosen for this movie are very suitable. The director does not pick very popular celebrities, in order to create a more realistic and serious theme. One particular would include Dezzy, which is highly relatable to the character Desdemona. Dezzy looked sweet and innocent, like an all American girl to be exact. One would never expect someone as pure as her to be an unfaithful disgrace to her significant other. Therefore it adds more of a shock and disappointment to the character Othello or in this case Oden. The lighting and setting of the movie went well with the plot. During happier times like in the beginning when Oden and Dezzy were madly in love, the lighting was more bright and clear; just like their relationship. When Oden was confused and lost, the setting became darker and more uneasy. The night took over, which is very symbolic for the fact that most bad things happen when no one can see them. If one has not watched this movie, I highly encourage them to do so. The understanding and overall meaning of the story, breaks past from the allegations of closed minded individuals. One will learn from watching this film how judging others based upon what is heard or observed is not only foolish but wrong. Anyone can surprise you and not everyone has your best interest at heart. While one may think this movie would be a waste of time, due to the fact that they have already read the play and could expect the outcome; they will be quite surprised to the suspense and plot changes. One could watch this movie many times and still be interested by the deceit. “O” makes one go into deep thought about their situations in life, and gives them a chance to reflect on their relationships with others. Overall, I believe this movie was a success because it amplifies the original play and also gives a taste to the time it was rewritten. One should certainly watch this movie and enjoy its story line, just as others did in current time as well as in the 1950s.

Othello 5

1. At the end of this scene we witness the murder of several characters. Did this ending satisfy you? Why or why not?
This ending was very satisfying because it sends the message that bad guys will never win in the end. Some characters had to die to give the story a dramatic ending, therefore I was okay with the deaths. 

2. This play is considered to be one of the greatest tragedies of all time. Why is it so tragic (avoid the answer: they all died).

This play is so tragic because bad things happened to good people. There were many deaths and betrayals one did not expect to see coming. The murders were also not peaceful in any way; they were all violent and disturbing. 

3. What does the handkerchief symbolize?

The handkerchief symbolized Othello and Desdemona's love. Therefore when it got lost, their love did also.

4. Examine Othello's last words. What do these words show us about him?

Othello wanted everyone to know who he really was and that he truly made a mistake killing his wife. He wanted the world to know he was a good man, however he was taken over by jealousy and tricked into believing horrible things. He truly did love Desdemona. 

Othello 4

1. In Act 4 we learn the character of Desdemona. Choose two quotes that you believe best illustrate her character.

"That’s not what I wish. I love him even when he’s harsh and mean—Help me unpin this, would you?—I love even his stubbornness, his frowns, his bad moods."

"...Unkindness is powerful, and his unkindness may kill me, but it’ll never destroy my love. I can’t say “whore.” It makes me sick to say the word even now. I wouldn’t do the thing that would make me a whore for all the money in the world."

This two quotes show the character of Desdemona because it shows how much she truly loves her husband and the value of her devotion to him. She is a women with morals and a big heart.

2. How is Othello changing in Act 4? What is the effect of his public humiliation of Desdemona by slapping her?

Othello starts to show his true jealous side. He has lost feelings for Desdemona and instead of treating her like a jewel, he treats her like filthy trash. When Othello slaps Desdemona his true character transformed. He is no longer the loving and greiving husband, but a revengeful monster. Now his reputation was lowered because he is looked down upon amongst others.

3. At the end of Act 4 we get a glimpse into the private world of women. How does Shakespeare portray this world?

 

Shakespeare portrays the side of women to be full of gossip and opinion. He gives others the idea that women are just as guilty as men when it comes to lying and cheating. However, he makes it clear not all women think in that manner. Once can also see how emotional a women can be when it comes to things that are important to them.

 

 

4. Analyze "The Willow Song". What is the literal meaning of this song? What does this song symbolize?

 

The literal meaning of the song is a women being deserted by her lover. This song relates well to Desdemona's situation because she believes the guy she met and decided to marry has gone away and turned into a crazy jealous trainwreck. When this song refers to a willow sitting at the edge of the water it also symbolizes women being deserted by their lovers.

Othello 3

1. What is a tragic flaw? What do you believe is Othello's tragic flaw? What is your tragic flaw? Explain.

A tragic flaw is a flaw that causes someone to unravel. Basically, it's a flaw that leads to their destruction. Othello's tragic flaw is trusting people too easily. He gives his trust to many people, based just on how they look. My tragic flaw is kindness. I would do anything for the people in my life, even if it came to putting myself out. It is a good thing to an extent, but at times kindness can be mistaken for weakness. After being too kind to someone, they tend to take things you do for granted, and the ability to be taken advantage of comes easily.

2. Below is the Shakespearean and modern version of Othello. Examine the quote about a good reputation. What does Iago mean through this quote? How valuable do you believe a reputation is? What is your reputation? What kind of name do you have amongst others?                                                                                                                                                                                        

Iago explains that an individual's reputation can not be replaced like money. By ruining someone's reputation one gains nothing, however the other person loses all they are known for. A reputation means a lot in my understanding. One is always judged by what they are known for, because your actions now can easily reflect in the future. I believe I have a good reputation as being honest, caring, and big hearted. The names I would carry amongst others would include a good friend, faithful girlfriend, loving daughter, well listener and trustworthy.

 

3. Connect this quote to another film/movie/book or to your own personal life.

 

This quote speaks very deep to me, because the quote's meaning is so true. Over thinking things can kill happiness, and cause burdens that does not even exist. I do this often in my life and it can be a harsh burden to carry. My imagination could easily destroy me if I let it. I think about a situation and connect things to make it even worse on my peace of mind. I now know that one should not add greif to a situation, but to take the facts and deal with them straightforward.

Othello Act 2

1. Choose one of Iago's soliloquies (end of 2.1 or end of 2.3) and thoroughly analyze it.

In the end of 2.1, Iago is expressing his plans to make The Moor believe his wife has a crush on Cassio. His tone is angry as he reassures himself things will go as he has planned. He reveals how each motion he makes, plays as a domino affect for the over all goal to be acheived. While talking about his plots for revenge and triumph, it shows how clever Iago is. He is tricky and selfish, only looking out for himself. He is also aware he is a bad person and knows what he is doing is wrong.

2. In Act II Iago launches his plan to destroy Othello. What is his motive? Jealousy? Racism? Is he opportunistic? A sociopath? All of the above? None of the above? Use TEXTUAL SUPPORT.

Iago's motive is severe jealousy. He hates The Moor because he wishes to be in his position. He wants to be him so bad that he would do anything to destory him. He is also, jealous due to a questioning affair between Othello and his wife. Iago states "I have a feeling the Moor slept with my wife. That thought keeps gnawing at me, eating me up inside. I won’t be satisfied until I get even with him, wife for wife."

3. Choose another character (from film, books, etc) that reminds you of Iago. Explain

 

Another character that is simular to Iago would be Loki in the motion picture Thor. He plays on the good side however he thinks of evil ways to manipulate things to be in his favor. He is clever like Iago and an expert trickster.

4. Two discussion Questions for Class

Why does Iago need Rodrigo for his money?

What can one foreshadow about the end of the story?

Othello

1. What conflicts do you already see beginning to emerge? Choose two quotes from Act I that expose these conflicts. Explain why each quote is significant and what it reveals about the characters.

 

Two Conflicts about to emerge would include the plotted destruction Iago has for Othello and the unknowing betrayl between Iago and Roderigo. The quote that best summarizes the conflict between Iago and Othello would be "...I’m serving under him to take advantage of him. We can’t all be masters, and not all masters should be followed. Look at all the devoted servants who work for their masters their whole lives for nothing but their food, and then when they get old they’re terminated. They ought to be whipped for being so stupid. But then there’s another kind of servant who looks dutiful and devoted, but who’s really looking out for himself. By pretending to serve their lords, these men get rich, and when they’ve saved up enough they can be their own masters. Guys like that have soul, and that’s the kind of guy I am..." because it explains Iago's plan to demise Othello. This reveals Iago's true colors because one can see he is not a trustworthy man. The significant quote for the conflict between Iago and Roderigo would be "That’s how I always do it, getting money from fools. I’d be wasting my skills dealing with an idiot like that if I couldn’t get something useful out of him..." because it shows the plan he has to fool Roderigo. This reveals the foolish ways of Roderigo to believe he can have a friendship with an untrustworthy man.

 

2. Create three discussion questions of your choice based on Act I

- Give two ways How to Read Literature Like a Professor relates to Othello?

-What are some character traits one can infer about Othello?
- Why was the secret marriage considered betrayl to Desdemona's father? consider the time frame the story was written.

3. In a paragraph each, analyze the character of Othello and Iago (so far).

Othello was a brave man and was born to lead his people to victory. He was emotionally and physically strong therefore working as a leader in the Army came naturally to him. He is not afraid to put trust into others, because he believes if a man acts and looks trustworthy than he must be. His past has become a huge part of who he is in present time. He is an honest man with good intensions. He loves Desdemona so much that he was willing to sacrifice for her if it came to it. Othello was a very knoble man; one might even say he was the knight in shining armour.

 

Iago was the complete opposite of Othello. He did not think of the greater good, only for himself. He was selfish, and full of hate to anyone that was better than him. His actions and thoughts show his dishonest and clever traits. He was a good liar and manipulative to those around him. He is a coward to say the least, because he uses others to do his dirty work instead of taking it upon himself.