EXPLORING THE ENDURING RELEVANCE OF SHAKESPEARE: A FOCUS ON "THE TAMING OF THE SHREW"

ВЕЧНАЯ АКТУАЛЬНОСТЬ ШЕКСПИРА (НА МАТЕРИАЛЕ "УКРОЩЕНИЕ СТРОПТИВОЙ")

Овсепян Юрий Арменакович

студент, факультет иностранных языков и регионоведения, Московский Государственный Университет имени М.В. Ломоносова,

РФ, г. Москва

АННОТАЦИЯ

В этой статье автор проводит параллели между литературным шедевром Елизаветинской эпохи «Укрощение строптивой» и современностью. Целью такого сопоставления является доказать актуальность пьесы У. Шекспира для читателей 21 века.

ABSTRACT

Once Franklin Delano Roosevelt stated the following: “Books cannot be killed by fire. People die, but books never die.” This article seeks to unravel the reasons behind the applicability of a specific quote to the masterpiece of the Elizabethan era, "The Taming of the Shrew," penned by William Shakespeare. What factors contribute to the enduring relevance of this play for contemporary readers, even though it was crafted over four centuries ago?

Ключевые слова: Шекспир, Укрощение строптивой, комедия, классика английской литературы.

Keywords: Shakespeare, The Taming of the Shrew, comedy, classic English literature.

To establish the enduring relevance of "The Taming of the Shrew" for contemporary readers, I intend to draw parallels between the conflicts depicted in the play and those prevalent in our modern times.

"The Taming of the Shrew" belongs to the realm of Shakespearean plays that primarily delve into the evolution of romantic relationships between men and women, from initial attraction to marriage. Yet, it distinguishes itself by not culminating in a customary wedding scene. Instead, it casts light upon the future dynamics of married couples, and diverges from the norm by highlighting the economic advantages of marriage. On one hand, the union is perpetually subject to negotiations between the prospective groom and the father of the would-be bride. Despite Lucentio and Bianca's profound affection for each other, Lucentio is compelled to persuade Bianca's father, Baptista, of his affluence. Had Hortensio offered a greater sum, he might have won Bianca's hand. Conversely, Petruchio's decision to marry Katherine is significantly motivated by her father's wealth. This intention is vividly illustrated in his dialogue with Hortensio in Act 1, Scene 2.

However, the situation isn't as straightforward as it may seem, for William Shakespeare prompts his audience to recognize that a person's true nature carries more weight than their outward façade. Upon first encountering Petruchio, he appears to be driven solely by self-interest and material gain, rather than genuine affection. Yet, when he crosses paths with Katherine, his sentiments transform into genuine love. Petruchio's stringent treatment of Katherine stems from his desire to kindle a reciprocated affection. Ultimately, Petruchio and Katherine develop sincere care and affection for one another. Initially, Kate is perceived as brash and intimidating by all, including her own father, who desperately seeks a suitor for her. Yet, the final scene unveils her true identity — she is the sole wife who promptly responds when called, in contrast to the others who offer excuses.

Shakespeare also skillfully masks the authentic nature of Bianca, Kate's younger sister, who is initially perceived as docile, gentle, and dedicated to learning. However, post-marriage, she adopts an indifferent and rebellious demeanor, akin to Katherine's previous disposition.

In contemporary society, the issue of mistaken identity remains a prevalent challenge. Today, as in the past four centuries, people continue to be swayed by appearances and initial impressions. This is a key reason why "The Taming of the Shrew" captivates its readers, offering a profound opportunity for reflection on the essence of one's true character.

Revisiting the theme of marriage portrayed in the play, while it may initially appear to reflect the conventional perspective of the 16th century, where women were perceived as commodities to be transferred from father to suitor, this romantic comedy also presents an alternative viewpoint. When Bianca elopes with Lucentio, she does so out of the belief that she has discovered her true love, defying her father's authority over her marital choices. The play further explores varied facets of 16th century married life in England. It highlights two distinct paradigms of marital relationships: one adhering to the common aspiration of a 16th-century bachelor to secure a marriage with a compliant wife possessing a substantial dowry, and the other exemplified by Petruchio and Katherine, which diverges from the norm by emphasizing the quest for a modest and amiable wife, with obedience not necessarily being paramount.

Despite its composition in the 16th century, "The Taming of the Shrew" retains its resonance in the 21st century, given the persistence of themes like marriages for financial reasons or secret unions, as well as the contrasting gender dynamics portrayed in the play. This timeless quality, coupled with the intricate and riveting plot, replete with disguises, continues to attract readers and provoke analysis.

References:

1. William, Shakespeare. Taming of the Shrew: Illustrated edition. Columbia : CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2017.