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The Taming of the Shrew, Act 2, Scene 1 summary

Act 2, Scene 1 of 14 · 16 min to read the scene

In Act 2, Scene 1, Petruchio negotiates a dowry and announces a Sunday wedding despite Katherina’s resistance, which he presents as affection concealed from others. Meanwhile, Tranio, posing as Lucentio, outbids Gremio for Bianca’s hand, but Baptista requires a father’s guarantee, prompting Tranio to plan another impersonation.

What happens

  1. Katherina attacks Bianca over her suitors, and Baptista intervenes, prompting Katherina to accuse him of favoring her sister.
  2. Petruchio introduces Hortensio as Licio, Gremio presents Lucentio as Cambio, and Tranio seeks Bianca while posing as Lucentio.
  3. Petruchio settles financial terms with Baptista, while Hortensio returns injured after Katherina breaks a lute over his head.
  4. Petruchio counters Katherina’s insults with praise and announces their Sunday wedding despite her objections.
  5. Baptista accepts the engagement, then invites Gremio and Tranio to compete over Bianca’s marriage settlement.
  6. Tranio offers more wealth, but Baptista demands his supposed father’s guarantee, so Tranio plans to find a substitute father.

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In this scene

KatherinaPetruchioBiancaLucentioTranioBaptistaHortensioTheme: Marriage and MoneyTheme: Control and Consent

What to notice

Petruchio states that Katherina’s wishes do not determine his plans. His public claim of mutual affection then contradicts her resistance.

Quick check

What condition does Baptista attach to accepting Tranio’s offer for Bianca?

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