-
Essay / Comparison between 'The Taming of the Shrew' and '10 Things I Hate About You'
The themes of William Shakespeare's classic plays still ring true today, and audiences around the world continue to enjoy them, both through traditional theatrical performances and through more contemporary interpretations. Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew and the 1999 film 10 Things I Hate About You, a modern interpretation, revolve around two sisters, one of whom hates the status quo and is not romantically involved, the other being highly sought after. by a series of suitors. However, young Bianca is not allowed to have a romantic relationship until her shrewd sister, Kate, does so first. Bianca's admirers find a solution to this problem: pay a strong-willed man to get involved with Kate. The film effectively embodies Shakespeare's original characters, while examining the softer aspects of their personalities that are not expressed in the play. Additionally, the film highlights the differences between dating in the late 1500s and dating in the 1990s. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original EssayThe characters of Patrick Verona and Petruchio provide a contrast to Shakespeare's ideas as well as a modern parallel. Both characters were rewarded for making advances towards a difficult and strong-willed woman. However, how they chose to treat the aforementioned woman varies. Petruchio's intention is to break Kate's fiery spirit in their marriage, while Patrick's feelings are genuine and his intentions pure. In the play, Petruchio goes to great lengths to waste Kate's individuality and turn her into an obedient, mindless plaything. Petruchio speaks with Kate: "And it is better for us both to fast, since we are choleric ourselves, than to feed him with such roasted flesh. Be patient, tomorrow it will be repaired, and, for this night, we let us fast for company” (IV.i.109-113). Although he acts under the pretense of overcooked food, Petruchio's sole intention is to deprive his new bride of food in order to weaken both her mind and body to better bend her to his will. In contrast, Patrick goes to unnecessary lengths to ensure Kat's happiness. Patrick interrupts Kat's soccer practice to serenade her over the loudspeaker while dancing on the stands in front of a large group of their peers. Here, Patrick's only motive is to express his sincere apologies for an altercation they had the day before. His actions are not motivated by a wish to deprive Kat of her self-esteem, as are those of Petruchio who prevents Kate from eating and sleeping. Instead, Patrick only wishes to see joy in the eyes of the one he cares about. When it comes to their passionate minds, Kat and Kate are kindred spirits, but in the play, Kate is far more burdened by the weight of oppressive gender roles. In both interpretations, it is clear that the female main character is seen by others as a shrewd tyrant. Women are feared by their peers, especially those of the opposite sex, intimidated by their strong will. Kate, who at that time should have already been married to a rich man, was without a suitor. After being informed of this, Kate responds, “My goodness, sir, you will never need to be afraid. I know it's not halfway to his heart. three-legged stool, paint your face and use you like a fool" (Ii61-65). Kate is completely unbothered by her lack of marriage options. She wants nothing to do with the..