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All Site ContentTaming of the ShrewAct 2Scene 1
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“I will not burden thee”
Double Meaning
Act 2,
Scene 1
Lines 198-202

An explanation of Petruchio’s innuendo in Act 2, Scene 1 of myShakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew.

Katherina

Asses are made to bear, and so are you.

Petruchio

Women are made to bear, and so are you.

Katherina

No such jade as you, if me you mean.    

Petruchio

Alas, good Kate, I will not burden thee,
For knowing thee to be but young and light —

Petruchio’s words have two possible readings:

  1. “Since you’re young and frail (light), I will not burden you with my weight.”
  2. “Having sex wouldn’t be a burden to a promiscuous (light) woman like you.”