Modern Shakespeare, Wednesday, Period 1 & 2

[glacial_queen]

"We briefly touched on feminism in our last class," Karla said, handing out summaries of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew as well as a very basic introduction to the concept of feminism. "This play has vexed feminists and feminist scholars for years with its depiction of the relationship between the two main characters and the change in Kate from the beginning of the play-within-a-play to the end of it. While you're watching today's movie, I want you to keep that in mind. Is the relationship in the movie better than the one in the play? Do you believe in Kate's transformation--and what do you think of it? How do you feel about her father's rules?"

as always, there was popcorn to be had while the movie played, and comfortable chairs and beanbags for the students to sprawl out on. Karla, of course, had very strong feelings about both the movie and the play that inspired it, but then, she was from a matriarchy. She looked forward to hearing what her students had to say about it.

Comments

Discussion Question 2

[glacial_queen]

What do you think about how Kate changed over the course of the movie? Did it feel real? Do you like the changes she undergoes?

Re: Discussion Question 2

[intotheout]

"I don't know if she really changes that much. She more just kinda . . . calms down? I mean, she's really, really angry at the beginning and doesn't like or trust anybody but then Patrick gets her to start opening up." Tip paused, tilting her head thoughtfully. "I mean, the part where she actually forgives him at the end might be a bit of a change. He betrayed her pretty big and that could have just made her more angry at the world. But instead she lets him back in."

Re: Discussion Question 2

[glacial_queen]

"How do you feel about the scene where she flashes the teacher in detention?" Karla asked. "In keeping with her character?"

Re: Discussion Question 2

[intotheout]

Tip shrugged. "I didn't notice it being particularly weird. But -- I've kind of seen this movie a million times. So nothing really stands out as weird."

Re: Discussion Question 2

[glacial_queen]

"Ah," Karla said, nodding. "That will change things. Though, as a warning, if you ever need to distract any of your teachers here, please find another way to do it. That way will just..." She shook her head. "All kinds of trouble. Just all kinds."

Re: Discussion Question 2

[intotheout]

"Um, okay. I kinda wouldn't do that anyway." Tip had plenty of other weapons in her distraction arsenal. "But I'll keep that in mind."

Re: Discussion Question 2

[glacial_queen]

"Fandom High's faculty and staff thank you," Karla said wry. "But now that you're thinking about it, would you say that this kind of action is in keeping with the feminist ideals as she spouts at the beginning of the movie?"

Re: Discussion Question 2

[intotheout]

"I don't know. I mean, it's kind of knee-jerk to say 'no', but no one's making her do it. She's using her body, and specifically men's reactions to it, for her own gain. Patrick doesn't tell her to do it."

Re: Discussion Question 2

[glacial_queen]

"You could look at it the other way, too, though," Karla said, grinning a bit. Gratuity had a quick mind and she enjoyed watching her think. "Relying on her body, rather than trying to come up with an excuse or something more cerebral. Isn't she supposed to be above using her body for advantage?"