Kate and Petruchio

The first time Kate and Petruchio ever meet (Act 2), when Petruchio tries to persuade Kate to marry him, the situation is a humor fest. Petruchio is extremely sarcastic in his comments to Kate, and scatological humor is present throughout the act. Shakespeare is a master of comedy, and gallows humor is also incorporated throughout the play in that various characters make light of the subject of death. The humor continues with the couple's wedding when Petruchio arrives late and very inappropriately dressed. Petruchio then leaves early with Kate (against her will), and it is soon discovered that all of this is in an attempt to tame her. Not only is Petruchio seeking her dowry, but he also does want a tame wife. When they arrive at Petruchio's house, Petruchio sends her to bed without dinner with the reason that the dinner was not perfect. He also plans to complain that the bed is not good enough, thus also depriving her of sleep. This is all in an attempt to curb her headstrong attitude. The typical subjugation of the woman that accompanies marriage is also present in this relationship. Petruchio makes several comments indicating that he considers Kate his property. This theme is further developed in the fact that Kate is not as adamant about her own opinions with Petruchio as she is with other men.