The Taming of the Shrew 1.1 Scene Summary

Lucentio arrives in Padua with his servant Tranio to study philosophy and become virtuous. However, Tranio suggests they enjoy themselves too. They overhear Baptista, a nobleman, stating that his daughter Bianca cannot marry until her sister Catherine does. Lucentio falls for Bianca and plans to disguise himself as her tutor, while Tranio pretends to be Lucentio. Biondello, another servant, is confused by their change of clothes, but Lucentio fabricates a story to explain it. The scene ends with Sly, an audience member, commenting on the play.

What is Lucentio's primary reason for coming to Padua?

• To visit family

• To start a business

• To find a wife

• To study philosophy and virtue

Why can't Bianca be courted for marriage according to Baptista?

• She wants to focus on her studies

• Her older sister must marry first

• She is already engaged

• She is too young

What plan do Lucentio and Tranio come up with to help Lucentio court Bianca?

• Lucentio will write love letters to Bianca

• Lucentio will host a grand party

• Tranio will ask for Bianca's hand in marriage

• Lucentio will pretend to be a schoolmaster

How does Lucentio explain his change of clothes to Biondello?

• He says he is trying out a new fashion

• He says he is going to a costume party

• He tells Biondello he lost a bet

• He claims he is hiding from the law after a fight

What is Biondello's reaction to Lucentio's story about the disguise?

• He reports it to the authorities

• He refuses to believe it

• He agrees to play along

• He decides to leave Padua