It has been a challenge taking on a character of such bad reputation. His reckless starvation of his stolen bride, and his insistent unnecessary discipline demanding the submission of his misunderstood wife. His over the top, absurd notion that His word has power over Fact itself, and her humiliation upon submitting to such a ridiculous man can seem... harsh.
I see this. As an actor, reader, an audience member, a person, I see this. I can see how interpretation of this show could lead someone down the simple road of battling sexes, or 'woman in her place' mentality. And, really, it's not a silly conclusion. I do, however, have my own conclusion and interpretation of Petruchio and his taming of this shrew.
Of the villains I've played I would place Petruchio at the bottom of the list, hoping that he was so far down on the list that the other bad-guys shadowed his meager presence on said list.
Lists have a way of being subjective anyway.
It is my unprofessional opinion/analysis that Petruchio is a wise, ballsy, quick-witted, diligent, committed, positive, strong, courageous man who is thrilled by love, and reckless when it comes to getting what he wants. He functions for his love of adventurer, of radicalism (not to be confused with anarchy). He fights for the 'good-fight', the sport, the dance, the challenge, for Kate. This has redefined what was my initial opinion of him. An opinion very much like my earlier paragraph, and has made me look at it differently.
It is wonderful piecing together such a complex individual. His precise philosophy demanding self-discipline in the woman whom he wants to see succeed, in her own way. His big tricks/games strategically frustrating his soul-mate, who is simply challenged by her own selfish frustrations, her self-pity fueled by social shunning, living a life spoiled and yet unsatisfied. He shows her that an individuals Word can be much more important than any Fact.
Facts have a way of being subjective anyway.
Ben Brinton ( wha' ? )
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