The Taming of the Shrew

I saw a professional production of this play with my parents tonight. I had never seen of read the play, and I really enjoyed it. The show was very well done and very hilarious. As I read the synopsis in the playbill, and as I watched the entire story conclude, the point of the show seemed very outdated. A wife being completely subservient to her husband, showing complete obedience to him? In the play, this is extolled and praised. Was there something valuable to learn here?

There was. Of course, I do understand that the culture of Shakespeare's time was quite different compared to present day culture. But, that doesn't mean we can't find relevant meaning and truth in old texts. During Kate's final speech, the biblical connection was made in my mind, that of Jesus Christ and the members of His Church being compared to a bridegroom and a bride. As I thought of the relationship I have with the Lord, everything Kate said in the play made sense. I came to see the relationship between Kate and her husband as an allegory for one's relationship with God.

I can recognize times when I think and act "shrewish," my imperfect self rebelling against my true potential. Don't we all need at least a little bit of taming to become better human beings and better children of God? I think so. In this context, I have no problem with the story and message of Shakespeare's play.

And, as I said before, the show was really good and I'm glad I was able to see it tonight.