# Scene I explained — The Taming of the Shrew

> Chapter companion for The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Lucentio, disguised as Cambio, and Hortensio, disguised as Licio, compete for Bianca's attention during a music and philosophy lesson. Bianca asserts her independence in choosing her lessons and suitors. Lucentio reveals his true identity to Bianca through a Latin translation, while Hortensio grows suspicious of Lucentio's motives. A servant interrupts to summon Bianca to prepare for Katharina's wedding, and Hortensio vows revenge if Bianca proves unfaithful.

## Themes in this chapter

### Disguise and Deception

Lucentio and Hortensio both adopt false identities to woo Bianca, using lessons as a cover for romantic pursuit.

### Courtship and Romantic Strategy

The scene highlights competitive courtship as Lucentio and Hortensio vie for Bianca's favor through intellectual and musical displays.

## Character check-ins

### Lucentio

Disguised as Cambio, he uses a Latin lesson to secretly reveal his true identity and intentions to Bianca.

### Hortensio

Disguised as Licio, he competes with Lucentio for Bianca's attention and becomes suspicious of his rival.

### Bianca

Assertive in her learning and courtship, she deciphers Lucentio's hidden message but remains cautious.

## Key lines

> I am no breeching scholar in the schools; I’ll not be tied to hours nor ’pointed times, But learn my lessons as I please myself.

I am not a schoolboy to be ordered around; I will study when and what I choose.

_Bianca asserts her autonomy in learning and, by extension, in matters of love._

> Hic ibat Simois; hic est Sigeia tellus; Hic steterat Priami regia celsa senis.

Here flowed the Simois; here is the Sigeian land; here stood the high palace of old Priam.

_Lucentio uses a Latin quotation from Ovid to secretly reveal his identity and plot to Bianca._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_taming_of_the_shrew_se/chapters/act-iii-scene-i
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_taming_of_the_shrew_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_taming_of_the_shrew_se/chapters