Womens Language in Shakespeares The Taming of the Shrew

Abstract

The purpose of this essay is to examine William Shakespeares women characters in the light of Simone de Beauvoirs famous quote: To say that women is mystery is to say, not that she is silent, but that her language is not understood; she is there, but hidden behind veils; she exists beyond these uncertain appearances. The character mainly discussed in this paper is Katherine who challenges everyday norms in Shakespeares play, The Taming of Shrew. What this essay suggests is that within the storyline of the play, the female language is not understood in the patriarchal society and the powerful female figures like Katherine are seen as hidden behind the veil.