The Taming of the Shrew - Blog #4

"Marry, so I mean, sweet Katherine, in thy bed.
And therefore, setting all this chat aside,
Thus in plain terms: your father hath consented
That you shall be my wife, your dowry 'greed on,
And, will you, nill you, I will marry you.
Now, Kate, I am a husband for your turn,
For, by this light, whereby I see thy beauty,
Thy beauty that doth make me like thee well,
Thou must be married to no man but me.
For I am he am born to tame you, Kate,
And bring you from a wild Kate to a Kate
Conformable as other household Kates."
2.1.263-274

This quote, spoken by Petruchio, reveals a good deal about his character. After engaging in a witty argument with Katherine, Petruchio finally speaks plainly and basically says "You're getting married to me, whether you like it or not, and there's nothing you can do about it!" Petruchio is determined to marry Kate and tame her fiery character, and he's very confident that he can do this. Additionally, the diction Petruchio uses is very commanding and shows he is decided in his actions and that he is establishing authority over Kate, saying things like "you SHALL be my wife," "I WILL marry you," "thou MUST be married to no man but me." Petruchio is very set on his actions and will not let Kate's difficult personality get in the way, and his determination is especially highlighted through the use of his definitive language.