Plot overview - Discuss the play using literary terminology - Act, Scene, Exposition / Introduction, Rising Action, Climax / Turning Point, Falling Action, Resolution
BBC The Taming Of The Shrew
Describe Act 1: Introduction
Act 1 of "The Taming of the Shrew" serves as the introduction or exposition of the play, setting the stage for the rest of the story to unfold. The scene opens with a group of nobleman discussing the potential suitors for the wealthy and feisty Katherine, known as the "shrew" of the title. Baptista Minola, Katherine's father, declares that he will not allow his younger daughter Bianca to marry until Katherine is wed. This sets off a series of events as various suitors attempt to woo Katherine, including the brash Petruchio who believes he can tame her.
This act establishes the central conflict of the play - the battle of wills between Katherine and Petruchio, as well as the subplots involving Bianca and her suitors. The introduction of the characters, their motivations, and the societal norms of the time where women were expected to be submissive to men are all key elements of Act 1. The stage is set for the rising action and conflicts that will drive the plot forward in the subsequent acts.