The Taming of the Shrew 1.1 Word Nerd: “shrew”

The transcript explores the evolution of the word 'shrew' from its origins, where it described a fierce animal, to its application to people as a term for someone evil or wicked. By Shakespeare's time, it referred to a scolding woman, a usage that persists today in a pejorative sense. The adjective 'shrewd' evolved separately, initially describing cunning in evil deeds, but now is used positively to denote cleverness. The transcript questions whether Catherine, the 'shrew' in Shakespeare's play, is merely ill-tempered or also clever and perceptive.

What was the original belief about shrews that influenced the early use of the word 'shrew' for people?

• They were considered to be lucky charms.

• They were believed to be possessed by an evil spirit.

• They were thought to be mythical creatures.

• They were seen as friendly animals.

By Shakespeare's era, how had the meaning of 'shrew' changed?

• It was used to describe a kind-hearted person.

• It commonly referred to a scolding, ill-tempered woman.

• It was used to describe a brave warrior.

• It referred to a wise old man.

In modern times, how is the term 'shrew' most often used?

• As a term for a person with a sharp wit.

• As a pejorative term for an argumentative woman.

• As a neutral term for any woman.

• As a compliment for a clever person.

What is the current positive meaning of the adjective 'shrewd'?

• Someone who is very clever and perceptive.

• Someone who is very cunning in evil deeds.

• Someone who is very loud and outspoken.

• Someone who is very naive and innocent.

What question does the video raise about Catherine, the shrew in the play?

• Is she a kind-hearted woman?

• Is she just an ill-tempered woman or also clever and perceptive?

• Is she a brave warrior?

• Is she a mythical creature?