The Taming of the Shrew 5.1 Word Nerd: “dotard”

The transcript explores the meanings associated with head nodding, particularly in contexts like falling asleep or old age. It defines 'dotard' as someone senile, often due to old age, and references a scene where Baptista demands the removal of a dotard. Additionally, it delves into the etymology of 'dote', linking it to infatuation and its Dutch origins.

What does the term 'dotard' generally refer to?

• A young and energetic individual

• Someone who is senile or not in their right mind

• A person who is always happy

• A person who is very intelligent

Which of the following is NOT a meaning related to 'dotard'?

• Someone who is senile

• Head nodding due to sleepiness

• Uncontrollable head movement from old age

• A person who is very young

In the context of Baptista's demand, who is referred to as a 'dotard'?

• A young merchant

• A wise old man

• A crazy old man pretending to be someone else

• A famous actor

What is the origin of the word 'dotard' related to?

• The French language

• The Greek word for 'wise'

• The Dutch word for 'to dote'

• The Latin word for 'old'

What does the verb 'to dote' mean?

• To be indifferent

• To be infatuated with someone

• To be angry

• To be confused