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The Taming of the Shrew

film by Zeffirelli [1967]

Quick Summary

The 1967 film The Taming of the Shrew, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, stars Elizabeth Taylor as Katharina (Kate) and Richard Burton as Petruchio. This adaptation of William Shakespeare's play follows the volatile courtship between the headstrong Katharina and the determined Petruchio, who aims to tame her temper and claim her dowry.12

The play is set in Padua, where Katharina's father will not allow her younger sister, Bianca, to marry until Katharina is wed. Petruchio arrives seeking a wealthy wife and is directed to Katharina. Despite her initial hostility, he woos, marries, and "tames" her through his insistence and wit. The film captures the main plot of Katharina's transformation and the subplot involving Bianca's numerous suitors.2

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