The Taming of the Shrew: Passage

Act III, Scene II shows the absurdity of Kate manifested by Petruchio. His strange behavior, however humorous, is his way of showing Kate the ridiculous manner in which she acts. The absurdity of Petruchio’s attire and arrival cause one to believe that he is not taking the wedding seriously. This costume shows, however, that Petruchio has taken control of the relationship. The clothes can also be seen as symbolic for the institution of marriage and the financial business behind it. There is an absurdity, yet also a safety, in marrying for financial purposes. While Petruchio’s original intent was for wealth, his outlook has changed. The attire in which he wears enables Kate to see that he is willing to adhere, or even join, Kate’s behavior. Kate better understands her own behavior through Petruchio's behavior.

The following passage illustrates the manner in which Petruchio acted.

“They shall go forward, Kate, at thy command.—
Obey the bride, you that attend on her.
Go to the feast, revel and domineer,
Carouse full measure to her maidenhead,
Be mad and merry, or go hang yourselves.
But for my bonny Kate, she must with me.
Nay, look not big, nor stamp, nor stare, nor fret;
I will be master of what is mine own.
She is my goods, my chattels; she is my house,
My household stuff, my field, my barn,
My horse, my ox, my ass, my anything.
And here she stands, touch her whoever dare.
I'll bring mine action on the proudest he
That stops my way in Padua.—Grumio,
Draw forth thy weapon, we are beset with thieves.
Rescue thy mistress if thou be a man.—
Fear not, sweet wench, they shall not touch thee, Kate.
I'll buckler thee against a million.” (Act III, scene II. 195-212)

Petruchio begins by giving power to Kate. He says "thy command" in order to distinguish her. It is he who commands the guests, however, in saying "obey the bride...go to the feast... carouse full measure...be mad and merry..." This asserts his power, not only over the situation, but, over Kate as well. His power, although his intentions are playful and not malicious, is asserted with his threats and insults. It is interesting that he calls the guests "thieves" and draws his sword. This absurd action is far more exaggerated than Kate's behavior, however it illustrates the depiction of her behavior. Petruchio claims that Kate is a possession of his, no different than his house, field, or barn. It is strange and domineering for him to compare Kate to these inanimate things. The guests all find Petruchio's behavior humorous and to be suited for Kate.