A study of The Taming of the Shrew proves to be problematic in contemporary classrooms. Is Shakespeare following Elizabethan conventions or being ironic? What are readers supposed to make of all the hunting imagery? Of Katherine's final monologue? This guide is designed to help teachers approach the play mindfully.

Concepts

william shakespeare, the taming of the shrew, literary analysis, dramatic irony

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Instructional Ideas

• Have those interested in theatre compare Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew to the musical Kiss Me, Kate.

Classroom Considerations

• Before selecting the play for full-class study, consider how you will address the issues of gender roles and gender politics
• The guide suggests instructors read excerpts from Germain Greer's The Female Eunuch and or Linda Bamber's essay "Sexism and the Battle of the Sexes in The Taming of the Shrew "

Pros

• The study guide notes the difficulty levels of each of the activities and discussion questions

Cons

• None

Common Core

RL.9-10.10a RL.9-10.10b RL.11-12.10a RL.11-12.10b