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All Site ContentTaming of the ShrewAct 5Scene 2
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“Am I your bird?”
Metaphor
Act 5,
Scene 2
Lines 44-48

An explanation of Bianca’s question, “Am I your bird?” in Act 5, Scene 2 of myShakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. 

Petruchio

Nay, that you shall not. Since you have begun,   
Have at you for a better jest or two.    

Bianca

Am I your bird? I mean to shift my bush,
And then pursue me as you draw your bow.    
You are welcome all.    

Petruchio may think he’ll hit Bianca with his witty barbs, but she’s two quick-witted for him. She’ll be like a bird that flits from bush to bush, pursued to no avail by hunters struggling to draw back their bows for a shot. They’re all welcome to try to hit her.