Twist of Fate

Fate is a subjective occurrence that may evolve as the eras and their matching ideologies change. However there is always the connection of the idea of fates matching with the dominant group’s interest. Presently there is a more accepted idea of being able to adjust a fate, if one’s circumstances can allow it. However, fate is often used as a factor to justify both mistreatment and and domination. One’s fate does not usually allow them space to be able to change under the conditions set before them.

First off, let’s examine the dynamics of the relationship between Katherine and Petruchio. In the beginning of the play, the first lines that she speaks in the play show a defiance to the men presented to her.

“I' faith, sir, you shall never need to fear.

I wis it is not halfway to her heart.

But if it were, doubt not her care should be

To comb your noddle with a three-legged stool

And paint your face and use you like a fool.”

Here she mocks the idea of being with either of the suitors, showing that she would subject them to humiliation if they were to try anything with her. Her fate here was to be selective of the men who approach her, and put those who wrongly do so in place. However, fate had a different option for her.

In Taming of the Shrew, Katherine’s and Bianca’s ultimate fate was to be married off to wealthy men who could secure financial stability. However Katherine did not feel the drive to be with any of the men who were presented to her, and held a defiant stance against many men who tried to approach her. She felt her fate would have more of her personal involvement in it. However ultimately her fate was left in the hand of her suitor, who changed it to his more superficial interests. This brings in the question of how fate is determined - the important of the reigning interests. Although there was more depth and reason behind what Katherine saw important to her, it was not the end that was given to her. Instead she was forced to conform to the fate that was imposed onto her. 

However, there is also an allure to be able to change one’s fate to be more accommodating to their interests. However in many cases, what someone sees as their future does not play into their fate. The suitors in The Taming of the Shrew reflect this idea through the changing of identities in order to gain a closer contact with their desired lover. Lucentio, Gremio and Hortensio all feel that Bianca should be with them, however only one can actually accomplish this goal. This pushes the fate of one the suitors to the bench while the other is free to pursue his wish. In this case, it displays how one is oftentimes in pursuit of a fate that they believe to be right for them, but they do not necessarily receive this fate.