The Taming of the Shrew 1908
One of cinema's earliest takes on Shakespeare's fiery battle-of-the-sexes comedy, *The Taming of the Shrew (1908)* offers a brisk 17-minute glimpse into D.W. Griffith's playful yet provocative direction. Florence Lawrence and Arthur V.
Director: D.W. Griffith
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Taming of the Shrew (1908) about?
This silent-era short brings Shakespeare's classic comedy to life, following the fiery Katharina as she clashes with the bold Petruchio in a courtship that tests both their patience and wit. The film distills the play's central conflict—can love survive when temperaments collide?
Who directed The Taming of the Shrew?
Pioneering filmmaker D.W. Griffith directed this early adaptation, showcasing his knack for visual storytelling and dramatic pacing even in the silent era.
Who stars in The Taming of the Shrew?
Florence Lawrence and Arthur V. Johnson take the lead roles, with Linda Arvidson, Harry Solter, and Charles Avery rounding out the cast in this early Griffith production.
Is The Taming of the Shrew (1908) worth watching?
While *The Taming of the Shrew (1908)* is a product of its time, its 17-minute runtime makes it a fascinating snapshot of early cinema and Shakespearean adaptation. Comedy and romance fans curious about silent films or Griffith's work will find it a quick but rewarding watch.
How long is The Taming of the Shrew?
The Taming of the Shrew (1908) runs for 17 minutes, offering a concise yet spirited take on Shakespeare's comedy.
🎥 Trailer
About The Taming of the Shrew (1908) — Silent-era Shakespeare comedy with Griffith's early charm
One of cinema's earliest takes on Shakespeare's fiery battle-of-the-sexes comedy, *The Taming of the Shrew (1908)* offers a brisk 17-minute glimpse into D.W. Griffith's playful yet provocative direction. Florence Lawrence and Arthur V. Johnson headline this silent-era adaptation, where the sharp-tongued Katharina and the bold suitor Petruchio lock horns in a courtship that blurs the line between romance and comedy. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century Italy, the film captures the era's social tensions through Griffith's keen eye for contrast—chaotic taverns, grand estates, and the palpable friction between two strong-willed lovers. The story weaves themes of power, transformation, and the absurd lengths one might go to win a heart, all wrapped in Griffith's signature visual storytelling.
With minimal dialogue and maximum energy, the 1908 short film delivers Shakespeare's classic battle of wits with a lighthearted twist, stripping the play down to its core battle for dominance. Lawrence's Katharina is a force of nature, her fiery temperament matched only by Petruchio's relentless charm, creating a dynamic that's as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. The silent film's charm lies in its simplicity and the way it invites modern viewers to ponder the timelessness of the story's underlying questions about love, control, and transformation.