The Taming of the Shrew Translation Act 2, Scene 1
Enter KATHERINE and BIANCA, her hands bound
BIANCA
Good sister, wrong me not nor wrong yourself, To make a bondmaid and a slave of me. That I disdain. But for these other goods— Unbind my hands, I’ll pull them off myself, Yea, all my raiment to my petticoat, Or what you will command me will I do, So well I know my duty to my elders.
BIANCA
Good sister, don't wrong both me and yourself by turning me into a slave. I won't stand for that. But if it's my jewelry and clothes you want—untie my hands and I'll pull them off myself, yes, everything down to my underwear. Or I'll do anything else you command me to do, for I know that it is my duty is to obey my elders.
KATHERINE
Of all thy suitors here I charge thee tellWhom thou lovest best. See thou dissemble not.
KATHERINE
I order you to tell me which of your suitors you like best. And make sure you don't lie.
BIANCA
Believe me, sister, of all the men aliveI never yet beheld that special faceWhich I could fancy more than any other.
BIANCA
Believe me, sister, out of all the men alive I've never yet seen that special face that I could love more than any other.
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Minion, thou liest. Is ’t not Hortensio?
KATHERINE
You're lying, you hussy. It's Hortensio, isn't it?
BIANCA
If you affect him, sister, here I swear I’ll plead for you myself, but you shall have him.
BIANCA
If you love him, sister, you can have him. I swear I'll even plead with him on your behalf.
KATHERINE
Oh, then belike you fancy riches more.You will have Gremio to keep you fair.
KATHERINE
Oh, then you probably prefer money. You'll choose Gremio who will keep you dressed up in fine clothes and jewelry.
BIANCA
Is it for him you do envy me so? Nay, then you jest, and now I well perceive You have but jested with me all this while. I prithee, sister Kate, untie my hands.
BIANCA
Are you really jealous of me because of him? You must be joking—and now I can see that you've been joking with me this whole time. Please, sister Kate, untie my hands.
KATHERINE strikes her
KATHERINE
If that be jest, then all the rest was so.
KATHERINE
If you consider that a joke, then the rest was too.
Enter BAPTISTA
BAPTISTA
Why, how now, dame! whence grows this insolence?— Bianca, stand aside.—Poor girl, she weeps! [To BIANCA] Go ply thy needle; meddle not with her. [To KATHERINE] For shame, thou hilding of a devilish spirit! Why dost thou wrong her that did ne'er wrong thee? When did she cross thee with a bitter word?
BAPTISTA
What's going on, woman? How dare you!—Bianca, step away from her.—The poor girl, she's weeping!
[To BIANCA] Go do some sewing, and don't talk to her.
[To KATHERINE] For shame, you vicious creature, you devil! Why would you hurt her when she's never done you any harm? When did she ever speak a single cruel word to you?
KATHERINE
Her silence flouts me, and I’ll be revenged.
KATHERINE
Her silence mocks me, and I'll get my revenge on her.
Flies after BIANCA
BAPTISTA
What, in my sight?—Bianca, get thee in.
BAPTISTA
What, right in front of me?—Bianca, go inside.
Exit BIANCA
KATHERINE
What, will you not suffer me? Nay, now I see She is your treasure, she must have a husband, I must dance barefoot on her wedding day And, for your love to her, lead apes in hell. Talk not to me. I will go sit and weep Till I can find occasion of revenge.
KATHERINE
What, you can't even stand my presence? Now I see that she is your treasure. She must have a husband, while I must dance barefoot on her wedding day and lead apes in hell, all because you love her most. Don't speak to me, I will go cry and wait until I can get my revenge.
Exit
BAPTISTA
Was ever gentleman thus grieved as I?But who comes here?
BAPTISTA
Was there ever a man who suffered like I do? But who's this coming?
Enter GREMIO, LUCENTIO in the habit of a mean man; PETRUCHIO, with HORTENSIO as a musician; and TRANIO, with BIONDELLO bearing a lute and books
GREMIO
Good morrow, neighbor Baptista.
GREMIO
Good morning, neighbor Baptista.
BAPTISTA
Good morrow, neighbor Gremio.—God save you, gentlemen!
BAPTISTA
Good morning, neighbor Gremio.—Hello and God bless you, gentlemen!
PETRUCHIO
And you, good sir. Pray, have you not a daughterCalled Katherina, fair and virtuous?
PETRUCHIO
And you, good sir. Please tell me, don't you have a daughter named Katherina, who is fair and virtuous?
BAPTISTA
I have a daughter, sir, called Katherina.
BAPTISTA
I do have a daughter named Katherina, sir.
GREMIO
[To PETRUCHIO] You are too blunt. Go to it orderly.
GREMIO
[To PETRUCHIO] You're being too blunt. Go about it with more ceremony.
PETRUCHIO
You wrong me, Signior Gremio. Give me leave.— I am a gentleman of Verona, sir, That hearing of her beauty and her wit, Her affability and bashful modesty, Her wondrous qualities and mild behavior, Am bold to show myself a forward guest Within your house, to make mine eye the witness Of that report which I so oft have heard. And, for an entrance to my entertainment, I do present you with a man of mine, [presenting HORTENSIO , disguised as LITIO ] Cunning in music and the mathematics, To instruct her fully in those sciences, Whereof I know she is not ignorant. Accept of him, or else you do me wrong. His name is Litio, born in Mantua.
PETRUCHIO
You do me wrong, Sir Gremio. Let me continue.—I am a gentleman of Verona, sir, who has heard of your daughter's beauty and wit, her friendliness and bashful modesty, her wondrous talents and mild behavior. I have now boldly come as a guest to your house to try and see for myself all the things I've heard reported. And, to pay the price of my admission to your hospitality, I here present you with a servant of mine.
[He presents HORTENSIO, disguised as LITIO] He is skilled in music and mathematics, and can instruct your daughter in these fields of study—in which I know she is no beginner. Accept him, or else risk offending me. His name is Litio, from Mantua.
BAPTISTA
You’re welcome, sir, and he for your good sake.But for my daughter Katherine, this I know,She is not for your turn, the more my grief.
BAPTISTA
You're welcome here, sir, and he is too, for your sake. But as for my daughter Katherine, this much I know: she won't meet your expectations—and that's a pity for me.
PETRUCHIO
I see you do not mean to part with her, Or else you like not of my company.
PETRUCHIO
I see that you don't intend to part with her, or else you don't like my company.
BAPTISTA
Mistake me not. I speak but as I find.Whence are you, sir? What may I call your name?
BAPTISTA
No, don't misunderstand me—I'm just stating the facts. Where are you from, sir? What name should I call you?
PETRUCHIO
Petruchio is my name, Antonio’s son,A man well known throughout all Italy.
PETRUCHIO
Petruchio is my name. My father was Antonio, a man well known throughout Italy.
BAPTISTA
I know him well. You are welcome for his sake.
BAPTISTA
He's well known to me. You are welcome for his sake.
GREMIO
Saving your tale, Petruchio, I prayLet us that are poor petitioners speak too. Bacare, you are marvelous forward.
GREMIO
With all due respect, Petruchio, please let us poor petitioners get a word in too. Stand back—you're too forward.
PETRUCHIO
Oh, pardon me, Signior Gremio, I would fain be doing.
PETRUCHIO
Oh, pardon me, Sir Gremio. I'm just eager to get down to business.
GREMIO
I doubt it not, sir, but you will curse your wooing.— [To BAPTISTA ] Neighbor, this is a gift very grateful, I am sure of it. To express the like kindness, myself, that have been more kindly beholding to you than any, freely give unto you this young scholar [presenting LUCENTIO , disguised as CAMBIO ] that hath been long studying at Rheims, as cunning in Greek, Latin, and other languages as the other in music and mathematics. His name is Cambio. Pray accept his service.
GREMIO
I don't doubt it, sir, but you'll regret your wooing if it's successful.
[To BAPTISTA] Neighbor, this is a very gracious gift, I'm sure. To express my own gratitude, I—who am more indebted to you than anyone—offer you the services of this young scholar.
[Presenting LUCENTIO, disguised as CAMBIO] He has studied at the university in Rheims, and is as skilled in Greek, Latin, and other languages as that man is in music and mathematics. His name is Cambio. Please accept his service.
BAPTISTA
A thousand thanks, Signior Gremio. Welcome, good Cambio. [To TRANIO as LUCENTIO ] But, gentle sir, methinks you walk like a stranger. May I be so bold to know the cause of your coming?
BAPTISTA
A thousand thanks, Sir Gremio. Welcome, good Cambio.
[To TRANIO, disguised as LUCENTIO] But, gentle sir, you seem to be a foreigner. May I be so bold as to ask about your reason for coming here?
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] Pardon me, sir, the boldness is mine own, That being a stranger in this city here Do make myself a suitor to your daughter, Unto Bianca, fair and virtuous. Nor is your firm resolve unknown to me, In the preferment of the eldest sister. This liberty is all that I request, That, upon knowledge of my parentage, I may have welcome ’mongst the rest that woo And free access and favor as the rest. And toward the education of your daughters, I here bestow a simple instrument And this small packet of Greek and Latin books. [BIONDELLO b rings the gifts forward] If you accept them, then their worth is great.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] Pardon me sir, for the boldness is all my own. I am a foreigner in this city, but I have come to make myself a suitor to your daughter, the fair and virtuous Bianca. I'm also aware of your firm decision that your eldest daughter must marry first. All I ask is that, once you know who my parents are, you make me as welcome as Bianca's other suitors, and give me the same freedom and permission as the rest. And as for the education of your daughters, I here contribute a simple instrument and this small pack of Greek and Latin books.
[BIONDELLO brings the gifts forward] If you accept them, then they are valuable indeed.
BAPTISTA
Lucentio is your name. Of whence, I pray?
BAPTISTA
I see that your name is Lucentio. Where are you from?
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] Of Pisa, sir, son to Vincentio.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] From Pisa, sir. My father is Vincentio.
BAPTISTA
A mighty man of Pisa. By report I know him well. You are very welcome, sir. [To HORTENSIO as LITIO ] Take you the lute, [To LUCENTIO as CAMBIO ] and you the set of books. You shall go see your pupils presently. Holla, within!
BAPTISTA
A mighty man of Pisa. I know him well by reputation. You are very welcome, sir.
[To HORTENSIO as LITIO] You take the lute—
[to LUCENTIO as CAMBIO]—and you take the set of books. You will go see your pupils right away. Hey there, inside!
Enter a Servant
Sirrah, lead these gentlemenTo my daughters, and tell them bothThese are their tutors. Bid them use them well.
Boy, lead these gentlemen to my daughters, and tell them that these are their tutors, so make sure to treat them well.
Exit Servant with LUCENTIO and HORTENSIO, BIONDELLO following
We will go walk a little in the orchard, And then to dinner. You are passing welcome,And so I pray you all to think yourselves.
We'll go for a little walk in the garden, and then to dinner. Please, know that you are all very welcome here and make yourselves at home.
PETRUCHIO
Signior Baptista, my business asketh haste, And every day I cannot come to woo. You knew my father well, and in him me, Left solely heir to all his lands and goods, Which I have bettered rather than decreased. Then tell me, if I get your daughter’s love, What dowry shall I have with her to wife?
PETRUCHIO
Sir Baptista, I'm in a bit of a hurry with this business, and I can't come wooing every day. You knew my father well, and through him, me, the only heir to all his lands and wealth, which I have increased rather than depleted. So tell me, if I can win your daughter's love, what dowry will I get when I marry her?
BAPTISTA
After my death, the one half of my lands, And, in possession, twenty thousand crowns.
BAPTISTA
Twenty thousand crowns right away, and one half of my lands after my death.
PETRUCHIO
And, for that dowry, I’ll assure her of Her widowhood, be it that she survive me, In all my lands and leases whatsoever. Let specialties be therefore drawn between us, That covenants may be kept on either hand.
PETRUCHIO
And on my side, if I die before she does, as her widow's inheritance she'll get all my lands and the rent from my property. Let's have contracts drawn up between us, so both of us will be sure to keep up our end of the agreement.
BAPTISTA
Ay, when the special thing is well obtained,That is, her love, for that is all in all.
BAPTISTA
Of course, once the most important thing has been obtained—her love, that is. That is everything.
PETRUCHIO
Why, that is nothing. For I tell you, father, I am as peremptory as she proud-minded; And where two raging fires meet together, They do consume the thing that feeds their fury. Though little fire grows great with little wind, Yet extreme gusts will blow out fire and all. So I to her and so she yields to me, For I am rough and woo not like a babe.
PETRUCHIO
Why, that is nothing. I tell you, father, I am as domineering as she is proud-minded, and when two raging fires come together, they cancel each other out. A little wind will make a little fire great, but a great gust will blow the fire out. I'll be the great gust to her fire, and she will yield to me, for I am rough and don't woo like a child.
BAPTISTA
Well mayst thou woo, and happy be thy speed.But be thou armed for some unhappy words.
BAPTISTA
Good luck with your wooing. May you be successful. But be ready for some unpleasant words.
PETRUCHIO
Ay, to the proof, as mountains are for winds,That shakes not, though they blow perpetually.
PETRUCHIO
I'll be well-armed against them, like a mountain in the wind. Even if it keeps blowing forever, the mountain never shakes.
Enter HORTENSIO as LITIO, with his head broke
BAPTISTA
How now, my friend, why dost thou look so pale?
BAPTISTA
What's going on, my friend? Why do you look so pale?
HORTENSIO
[as LITIO] For fear, I promise you, if I look pale.
HORTENSIO
[As LITIO] If I look pale, it must be from fear.
BAPTISTA
What, will my daughter prove a good musician?
BAPTISTA
What, will my daughter turn out to be a good musician?
HORTENSIO
I think she’ll sooner prove a soldier.Iron may hold with her, but never lutes.
HORTENSIO
I think she'd do better as a soldier. Swords might withstand her, but never lutes.
BAPTISTA
Why, then thou canst not break her to the lute?
BAPTISTA
What, you don't think you can break her to the lute?
HORTENSIO
Why, no, for she hath broke the lute to me. I did but tell her she mistook her frets, And bowed her hand to teach her fingering, When, with a most impatient devilish spirit, “'Frets' call you these?” quoth she. “I’ll fume with them!” And with that word she struck me on the head, And through the instrument my pate made way, And there I stood amazèd for a while As on a pillory, looking through the lute, While she did call me “rascal fiddler” And “twangling Jack”; with twenty such vile terms, As had she studied to misuse me so.
HORTENSIO
Why no—she's broken the lute on me. All I told her was that she was using the wrong frets, and I bent her hand to teach her the right fingering. Then she jumped up with impatience and said, "'Frets,' is that what you call them? Let me fret you then!" And with that she struck me on the head, so that my head went right through the lute. I stood there confused for a while, looking through the strings of the lute as if they were prison bars, while she called me a "rascal fiddler," "twangling fool," and twenty other hateful names like that. It was as if she'd been practicing and planning to abuse me like this.
PETRUCHIO
Now, by the world, it is a lusty wench.I love her ten times more than e'er I did. O, how I long to have some chat with her!
PETRUCHIO
By God, that's a lively girl! Now I like her ten times more than I did before. Oh, I can't wait to talk to her!
BAPTISTA
[To HORTENSIO as LITIO] Well, go with me and be not so discomfited. Proceed in practice with my younger daughter. She’s apt to learn and thankful for good turns. Signior Petruchio, will you go with us, Or shall I send my daughter Kate to you?
BAPTISTA
[To HORTENSIO as LITIO] Well, come with me, and don't be discouraged. Proceed in your lessons with my younger daughter. She's a quick learner and will be grateful for your help. Sir Petruchio, will you come with us, or should I send my daughter Kate to you?
PETRUCHIO
I pray you do.
PETRUCHIO
Please send her in.
Exeunt all but PETRUCHIO
I’ll attend her here And woo her with some spirit when she comes. Say that she rail; why then I’ll tell her plain She sings as sweetly as a nightingale. Say that she frown; I’ll say she looks as clear As morning roses newly washed with dew. Say she be mute and will not speak a word; Then I’ll commend her volubility, And say she uttereth piercing eloquence. If she do bid me pack, I’ll give her thanks, As though she bid me stay by her a week. If she deny to wed, I’ll crave the day When I shall ask the banns and when be marrièd. But here she comes—and now, Petruchio, speak.
I'll wait for her here and woo her forcefully when she comes. If she rants and scolds, I'll tell her that she sings as sweetly as a nightingale. If she frowns, I'll say that she looks as cheerful as morning roses newly washed with dew. If she is silent and won't say a word, then I'll praise her for being talkative, and say that she speaks with piercing eloquence. If she tells me to get out, then I'll thank her as if she'd asked me to stay with her for a week. If she refuses to marry me, then I'll ask about the date for the announcement and the wedding. But here she comes—and now, Petruchio, speak.
Enter KATHERINE
Good morrow, Kate—for that’s your name, I hear.
Hello, Kate—for that's your name, I hear.
KATHERINE
Well have you heard, but something hard of hearing.They call me Katherine that do talk of me.
KATHERINE
You may have heard that, but you must be somewhat hard of hearing then. Those who talk about me call me Katherine.
PETRUCHIO
You lie, in faith, for you are called plain Kate, And bonny Kate, and sometimes Kate the curst, But Kate, the prettiest Kate in Christendom, Kate of Kate Hall, my super-dainty Kate— For dainties are all Kates —and therefore, Kate, Take this of me, Kate of my consolation: Hearing thy mildness praised in every town, Thy virtues spoke of, and thy beauty sounded— Yet not so deeply as to thee belongs— Myself am moved to woo thee for my wife.
PETRUCHIO
You lie, I swear, for you are called Kate, plain Kate, and pretty Kate, and sometimes Kate the shrew, but always Kate, the prettiest Kate in God's kingdom, Kate from Kate Hall, my delicious Kate—for all delicacies are Kates—and so, Kate, listen to me: having heard your modesty, virtue, and beauty praised in every town, though not as highly as you deserve, I have been moved to court you for my wife.
KATHERINE
“Moved,” in good time. Let him that moved you hitherRemove you hence. I knew you at the firstYou were a moveable.
KATHERINE
"Moved," indeed. Then let whoever moved you here come and remove you. I could tell at once that you were a moveable.
PETRUCHIO
Why, what’s a moveable?
PETRUCHIO
Why, what do you mean by "moveable?"
KATHERINE
A joint stool.
KATHERINE
A stool.
PETRUCHIO
Thou hast hit it. Come, sit on me.
PETRUCHIO
Exactly. Come sit on me.
KATHERINE
Asses are made to bear, and so are you.
KATHERINE
Asses are meant for bearing, and so are you.
PETRUCHIO
Women are made to bear, and so are you.
PETRUCHIO
Women are meant for bearing, and so are you.
KATHERINE
No such jade as you, if me you mean.
KATHERINE
Not for bearing the likes of you, if you're talking about me.
PETRUCHIO
Alas, good Kate, I will not burden thee,For knowing thee to be but young and light—
PETRUCHIO
Alas, good Kate, I would never burden you, for I know you're young and light—
KATHERINE
Too light for such a swain as you to catch,And yet as heavy as my weight should be.
KATHERINE
Too light for a bumpkin like you to catch—and yet just as heavy as I should be.
PETRUCHIO
“Should be”—should buzz!
PETRUCHIO
"Should be?" Keep on buzzing, bee!
KATHERINE
Well ta'en, and like a buzzard.
KATHERINE
Spoken like a true buzzard.
PETRUCHIO
O slow-winged turtle, shall a buzzard take thee?
PETRUCHIO
Oh slow-winged turtledove, will you let a buzzard catch you?
KATHERINE
Ay, for a turtle, as he takes a buzzard.
KATHERINE
No, this turtledove will catch a buzzard.
PETRUCHIO
Come, come, you wasp. I' faith, you are too angry.
PETRUCHIO
Come, come, my little wasp. Really, you're too angry.
KATHERINE
If I be waspish, best beware my sting.
KATHERINE
If I'm a wasp, then you'd better beware my stinger.
PETRUCHIO
My remedy is then to pluck it out.
PETRUCHIO
I'll have to pluck it out.
KATHERINE
Ay, if the fool could find it where it lies.
KATHERINE
If a fool like you could find it.
PETRUCHIO
Who knows not where a wasp does wear his sting?In his tail.
PETRUCHIO
Who doesn't know where a wasp wears its stinger? In its tail.
KATHERINE
In his tongue.
KATHERINE
No, in its tongue.
PETRUCHIO
Whose tongue?
PETRUCHIO
Whose tongue?
KATHERINE
Yours, if you talk of tales. And so farewell.
KATHERINE
Yours, if we're telling tall tales of tails. Farewell then.
PETRUCHIO
What, with my tongue in your tail? Nay, come again,Good Kate. I am a gentleman.
PETRUCHIO
What, you'll leave with my tongue in your tail? No, come back, good Kate. I am a gentleman.
KATHERINE
That I’ll try.
KATHERINE
I'll test that out.
She strikes him
PETRUCHIO
I swear I’ll cuff you if you strike again.
PETRUCHIO
I swear I'll hit you if you strike me again.
KATHERINE
So may you lose your arms.If you strike me, you are no gentleman;And if no gentleman, why then no arms.
KATHERINE
Then you'll lose your arms. If you strike me, then you're no gentleman, and if you're not a gentleman, then you have no arms.
PETRUCHIO
A herald, Kate? Oh, put me in thy books!
PETRUCHIO
Are you a register for gentlemen, Kate? Oh, put me in your good books!
KATHERINE
What is your crest? A coxcomb?
KATHERINE
What's your family crest? A coxcomb?
PETRUCHIO
A combless cock, so Kate will be my hen.
PETRUCHIO
I'd be a cock without a comb, if Kate will be my hen.
KATHERINE
No cock of mine. You crow too like a craven.
KATHERINE
Then you'd be no cock of mine. You won't fight.
PETRUCHIO
Nay, come, Kate, come. You must not look so sour.
PETRUCHIO
Come, Kate, come. Don't look so sour.
KATHERINE
It is my fashion, when I see a crab.
KATHERINE
That's just what I do, when I see a crab apple.
PETRUCHIO
Why, here’s no crab, and therefore look not sour.
PETRUCHIO
Why, there's no crab apple here, so don't look sour.
KATHERINE
There is, there is.
KATHERINE
But there is, there is.
PETRUCHIO
Then show it me.
PETRUCHIO
Then show it to me.
KATHERINE
Had I a glass, I would.
KATHERINE
If I had a mirror, I would.
PETRUCHIO
What, you mean my face?
PETRUCHIO
What, you mean my face?
KATHERINE
Well aimed of such a young one.
KATHERINE
What a good guess for such a boy!
PETRUCHIO
Now, by Saint George, I am too young for you.
PETRUCHIO
By Saint George, I probably am too young for you.
KATHERINE
Yet you are withered.
KATHERINE
But you're also wrinkled.
PETRUCHIO
'Tis with cares.
PETRUCHIO
That's from worries and cares.
KATHERINE
I care not.
KATHERINE
I don't care.
PETRUCHIO
Nay, hear you, Kate: in sooth you ’scape not so.
PETRUCHIO
Now listen, Kate: you won't escape like that.
KATHERINE
I chafe you, if I tarry. Let me go.
KATHERINE
I'll only irritate you if I stay. Let me go.
PETRUCHIO
No, not a whit. I find you passing gentle. 'Twas told me you were rough and coy and sullen, And now I find report a very liar. For thou are pleasant, gamesome, passing courteous, But slow in speech, yet sweet as springtime flowers. Thou canst not frown, thou canst not look askance, Nor bite the lip as angry wenches will, Nor hast thou pleasure to be cross in talk. But thou with mildness entertain’st thy wooers, With gentle conference, soft and affable. Why does the world report that Kate doth limp? O slanderous world! Kate like the hazel-twig
PETRUCHIO
No, not a bit. I find you exceedingly gentle. I was told that you were rough, scornful, and sullen, but now I see that those rumors are lies. You are pleasant, amusing, polite, not sharp-tongued, and as sweet as springtime flowers. Even if you tried, you couldn't frown, glare scornfully, or bite your lip as angry women do, and you take no pleasure in arguments. Instead you entertain your suitors with mild and gentle conversation, and are quiet and friendly. So why does the world report that Kate limps along? What a slanderous world! Kate is like a hazel-twig, straight and slender, her hair is as brown as hazelnuts, and she herself is sweeter than the hazelnut kernels. Oh, let me see you walk, Kate! You don't limp at all!
KATHERINE
Go, fool, and whom thou keep’st command.
KATHERINE
Go, fool. Order your servants around—not me.
PETRUCHIO
Did ever Dian so become a grove As Kate this chamber with her princely gait? Oh, be thou Dian, and let her be Kate, And then let Kate be chaste and Dian sportful.
PETRUCHIO
Did the goddess Diana ever grace a forest like Kate now graces this room with her queenly walk? Oh, you be Diana, then, and let Diana be Kate. Then let Kate be the chaste one, while Diana is my love.
KATHERINE
Where did you study all this goodly speech?
KATHERINE
Where did you memorize all this witty talk?
PETRUCHIO
It is extempore, from my mother wit.
PETRUCHIO
It's off-the-cuff. It comes from my natural intelligence.
KATHERINE
A witty mother! Witless else her son.
KATHERINE
What a witty mother! Too bad her son is witless.
PETRUCHIO
Am I not wise?
PETRUCHIO
Am I not wise?
KATHERINE
Yes, keep you warm.
KATHERINE
Hardly wise enough to keep yourself warm.
PETRUCHIO
Marry, so I mean, sweet Katherine, in thy bed. And therefore, setting all this chat aside, Thus in plain terms: your father hath consented That you shall be my wife, your dowry 'greed on, And, will you, nill you, I will marry you. Now, Kate, I am a husband for your turn, For, by this light, whereby I see thy beauty, Thy beauty that doth make me like thee well, Thou must be married to no man but me. For I am he am born to tame you, Kate, And bring you from a wild Kate to a Kate Conformable as other household Kates.
PETRUCHIO
Indeed, I do mean to keep myself warm, sweet Katherine, in your bed. But enough chatter. Let's speak plainly: your father has consented that you will be my wife. Your dowry is agreed upon, and whether you want it or not, I will marry you. Now, Kate, I'm the only husband for you. I swear by this light, which lets me see your beauty—your beauty that makes me love you—that you must be married to no man but me. I was born to tame you, Kate, and change you from a wildcat Kate into a Kate as obedient as other domesticated Kates.
Enter BAPTISTA, GREMIO, and TRANIO
Here comes your father. Never make denial.I must and will have Katherine to my wife.
Here comes your father. Don't refuse my proposal. I must and will have Katherine for my wife.
BAPTISTA
Now, Signior Petruchio, how speed you with my daughter?
BAPTISTA
Now, Sir Petruchio, how's it going with my daughter?
PETRUCHIO
How but well, sir? How but well? It were impossible I should speed amiss.
PETRUCHIO
How but well, sir? How but well? It would be impossible to go any other way.
BAPTISTA
Why, how now, daughter Katherine? In your dumps?
BAPTISTA
And how are you, daughter Katherine? Are you sad?
KATHERINE
Call you me daughter? Now, I promise you You have showed a tender fatherly regard To wish me wed to one half lunatic, A madcup ruffian and a swearing Jack, That thinks with oaths to face the matter out.
KATHERINE
You'd dare to call me daughter? I swear, you've certainly shown a father's tender care in trying to marry me off to a lunatic, a crazed villain and a swearing fool, who thinks that he can force his way through with enough cursing!
PETRUCHIO
Father, ’tis thus: yourself and all the world That talked of her have talked amiss of her. If she be curst, it is for policy, For she’s not froward, but modest as the dove. She is not hot, but temperate as the morn. For patience she will prove a second Grissel, And Roman Lucrece for her chastity. And to conclude, we have 'greed so well together, That upon Sunday is the wedding day.
PETRUCHIO
Father, it's like this: you and everyone else who've talked about her have all been wrong. If she's a shrew, then it's for some crafty purpose, for she's not naturally willful, but is in fact as modest as a dove. She's not fierce, but as mild as the morning. She has the patience of Griselda and the chastity of Rome's Lucrece. To conclude, we've gotten along so well together that Sunday will be our wedding day.
KATHERINE
I’ll see thee hanged on Sunday first.
KATHERINE
I'll see you hanged on Sunday first!
GREMIO
Hark, Petruchio: she says she’ll see thee hanged first.
GREMIO
Did you hear that, Petruchio? She says she'll see you hanged first.
TRANIO
Is this your speeding? Nay, then, good night our part.
TRANIO
Is this what you call success? So much for our hopes of freeing Bianca.
PETRUCHIO
Be patient, gentlemen. I choose her for myself. If she and I be pleased, what’s that to you? 'Tis bargained ’twixt us twain, being alone, That she shall still be curst in company. I tell you, ’tis incredible to believe How much she loves me. O, the kindest Kate! She hung about my neck, and kiss on kiss She vied so fast, protesting oath on oath, That in a twink she won me to her love. O, you are novices! 'Tis a world to see, How tame, when men and women are alone, A meacock wretch can make the curstest shrew.— Give me thy hand, Kate. I will unto Venice To buy apparel 'gainst the wedding day. Provide the feast, father, and bid the guests. I will be sure my Katherine shall be fine.
PETRUCHIO
Be patient, gentlemen. I choose her for myself. If she and I are happy, then what's it to you? When we were alone, we agreed that she would go on being a shrew in public. I tell you, it's incredible how much she loves me, though. Oh, the kindest Kate! She threw her arms around my neck, giving me kiss after kiss and swearing vows of love, and in an instant she had won my heart. Oh, you are all just beginners! It's amazing to see—even a cowardly wretch can tame the fiercest shrew when a man and a woman are left alone together.—Give me your hand, Kate. I'll now go to Venice to buy clothes for the wedding. You plan the feast, father, and invite the guests. I'll make sure my Katherine will be beautifully dressed.
BAPTISTA
I know not what to say, but give me your hands.God send you joy, Petruchio. 'Tis a match.
BAPTISTA
I don't know what to say. Give me your hands. May God give you joy, Petruchio. It's a match.
GREMIO AND TRANIO
Amen, say we. We will be witnesses.
GREMIO AND TRANIO
We say Amen to that! We will be witnesses.
PETRUCHIO
Father, and wife, and gentlemen, adieu. I will to Venice. Sunday comes apace. We will have rings, and things, and fine array, And kiss me, Kate. We will be married o' Sunday.
PETRUCHIO
Father, and wife, and gentlemen—farewell. I'm off to Venice. Sunday is coming soon. We will have rings, and things, and fine clothes, and kiss me, Kate. We will be married on Sunday.
Exeunt PETRUCHIO and KATHERINE severally
GREMIO
Was ever match clapped up so suddenly?
GREMIO
Was ever a match agreed upon so suddenly?
BAPTISTA
Faith, gentlemen, now I play a merchant’s part,And venture madly on a desperate mart.
BAPTISTA
Truly, gentlemen, I'm now playing the part of the merchant, and I've made a desperate bargain.
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] 'Twas a commodity lay fretting by you.'Twill bring you gain or perish on the seas.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] Yes, but your goods were just gathering dust and annoying you. Now they'll either bring you a profit or be lost at sea.
BAPTISTA
The gain I seek is quiet in the match.
BAPTISTA
The only profit I seek is a quiet, peaceful match.
GREMIO
No doubt but he hath got a quiet catch. But now, Baptista, to your younger daughter. Now is the day we long have lookèd for. I am your neighbor, and was suitor first.
GREMIO
And no doubt Petruchio will have a quiet catch—no one's going to fight him for her. But now, Baptista, let's think about your younger daughter. This is the day we've been waiting for. I am your neighbor, and I was her first suitor.
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] And I am one that love Bianca moreThan words can witness or your thoughts can guess.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] And I am a man that loves Bianca more than words can express, or your thoughts can guess.
GREMIO
Youngling, thou canst not love so dear as I.
GREMIO
Boy, you don't know how to love like I do.
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] Graybeard, thy love doth freeze.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] Old graybeard, your love has frozen over.
GREMIO
But thine doth fry.Skipper, stand back. 'Tis age that nourisheth.
GREMIO
But yours will burn out. Stand back, fickle boy. Age is what nourishes.
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] But youth in ladies' eyes that flourisheth.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] But in ladies' eyes, it's youth that flourishes.
BAPTISTA
Content you, gentlemen. I will compound this strife. 'Tis deeds must win the prize, and he of both That can assure my daughter greatest dower Shall have my Bianca’s love. Say, Signior Gremio, what can you assure her?
BAPTISTA
Calm down, gentlemen. I will settle this quarrel. Only deeds can determine the winner here. Whoever can offer my daughter the most wealth and property as her widow's inheritance will have Bianca's love. So tell me, Sir Gremio, what can you offer her?
GREMIO
First, as you know, my house within the city Is richly furnishèd with plate and gold, Basins and ewers to lave her dainty hands; My hangings all of Tyrian tapestry, In ivory coffers I have stuffed my crowns, In cypress chests my arras counterpoints, Costly apparel, tents, and canopies, Fine linen, Turkey cushions bossed with pearl, Valance of Venice gold in needlework, Pewter and brass, and all things that belong To house or housekeeping. Then, at my farm I have a hundred milch-kine to the pail, Six score fat oxen standing in my stalls, And all things answerable to this portion. Myself am struck in years, I must confess, And if I die tomorrow this is hers, If whilst I live she will be only mine.
GREMIO
First, as you know, my house in the city, which is richly furnished with gold and china, and basins and jugs for her to wash her dainty hands. My wall hangings are of purple tapestry, my ivory chests are stuffed with gold, and my cypress-wood chests are filled with quilted bedspreads, expensive clothes, bed curtains and canopies, fine linen, Turkish cushions embossed with pearl, gold Venetian draperies, pewter and brass, and everything else you could want for a house or housekeeping. Then, at my farm I have a hundred milk cows and a hundred and twenty fat oxen in my stables. Everything else I own is of a similar high value. I myself am getting on in years, I must confess, and if I should die tomorrow, all this will belong to Bianca—so long as while I live she will be only mine.
TRANIO
(as LUCENTIO] That “only” came well in. [To BAPTISTA] Sir, list to me: I am my father’s heir and only son. If I may have your daughter to my wife, I’ll leave her houses three or four as good, Within rich Pisa walls, as any one Old Signior Gremio has in Padua, Besides two thousand ducats by the year Of fruitful land, all which shall be her jointure.— What, have I pinched you, Signior Gremio?
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] That "only" came just in time.
[To BAPTISTA] Sir, listen to me: I am my father's heir and only son. If I may have your daughter for my wife, I will leave her three or four houses in rich Pisa, all of them as good as anything old Sir Gremio has in Padua. Along with this, she'll get two thousand gold coins a year, which is what my land earns me. All of this will be her marriage settlement.—What, have I discouraged you, Sir Gremio?
GREMIO
Two thousand ducats by the year of land! [aside] My land amounts not to so much in all.— That she shall have, besides an argosy That now is lying in Marcellus' road. [To TRANIO] What, have I choked you with an argosy?
GREMIO
Two thousand gold coins a year from his land!
[To himself] All my land together doesn't add up to that much!—Well, from me she'll have all that, plus a merchant ship that's now docked in Marseilles harbor.
[To TRANIO] What, have I silenced you with a ship?
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] Gremio, ’tis known my father hath no less Than three great argosies, besides two galliasses, And twelve tight galleys. These I will assure her, And twice as much whate'er thou offer’st next.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] Gremio, it's well known that my father has no fewer than three great merchant ships, along with two large galleys and twelve smaller ones. I'll offer all these to Bianca, and I'll double whatever you might offer next.
GREMIO
Nay, I have offered all, I have no more,And she can have no more than all I have. [To BAPTISTA] If you like me, she shall have me and mine.
GREMIO
No, I've offered everything I own. I have nothing left. She can't have more than all I have.
[To BAPTISTA] If you choose me, she will have me and mine.
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] Why, then the maid is mine from all the world,By your firm promise. Gremio is outvied.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] Why, then she's mine alone, of all the men in the world, by your firm promise. Gremio has been outbid.
BAPTISTA
I must confess your offer is the best, And, let your father make her the assurance, She is your own; else, you must pardon me. If you should die before him, where’s her dower?
BAPTISTA
I must confess that your offer is the best. If your father will second your guarantees, then she's yours. Otherwise, you must pardon me—if you should die before your father does, then what would become of all the wealth Bianca is supposed to inherit from you?
TRANIO
[as LUCENTIO] That’s but a cavil: he is old, I young.
TRANIO
[As LUCENTIO] That's a trivial objection: he is old, and I am young.
GREMIO
And may not young men die as well as old?
GREMIO
And can't young men die as well as old men?
BAPTISTA
Well, gentlemen, I am thus resolved. On Sunday next, you know My daughter Katherina is to be married. [To TRANIO as LUCENTIO ] Now, on the Sunday following, shall Bianca Be bride to you, if you make this assurance. If not, to Signior Gremio. And so I take my leave, and thank you both.
BAPTISTA
Well, gentlemen, I have decided. Next Sunday my daughter Katherina is to be married, you know.
[To TRANIO] On the following Sunday, Bianca will marry you—if you can make this guarantee. If you can't, then she'll marry Sir Gremio. And so I bid you farewell, and thank you both.
GREMIO
Adieu, good neighbor.
GREMIO
Farewell, good neighbor.
Exit BAPTISTA
Now I fear thee not. Sirrah young gamester, your father were a fool To give thee all and in his waning age Set foot under thy table. Tut, a toy! An old Italian fox is not so kind, my boy.
Now I'm not afraid of you anymore, boy. You young gambler, your father would be a fool to give you everything and spend his declining years as a dependent in your house. Ha, it's nonsense! An old Italian fox is never that kind, my boy.
Exit
TRANIO
A vengeance on your crafty withered hide! Yet I have faced it with a card of ten. 'Tis in my head to do my master good. I see no reason but supposed Lucentio Must get a father, called “supposed Vincentio”— And that’s a wonder. Fathers commonly Do get their children. But in this case of wooing, A child shall get a sire, if I fail not of my cunning.
TRANIO
A curse on your crafty withered hide! But I've bluffed successfully without even a face card. I think I'll be able to do my master good. I see no reason why the pretend Lucentio shouldn't produce a father, called "pretend Vincentio"—and that'll be a miracle. Fathers usually father their children, not the other way around. But in this case of wooing, a child will father a father, if my wits don't fail me.
Exit
