Katherina is known throughout Padua for her sharp tongue, quick temper, and disdain for men. She frequently engages in verbal sparring matches with her older sister Bianca and clashes with potential suitors. Petruchio is intrigued by Katherina's fiery nature and sets his sights on winning her hand.
The conflict between Petruchio and Katherina initially manifests as a battle of wills. Petruchio employs a unique approach to subdue Katherina's rebellious spirit. He matches her wit with his own, engages in psychological warfare, and gradually breaks her down through a process of deprivation, manipulation, and physical exhaustion.
This conflict between Petruchio and Katherina drives the plot of the play and contributes to its comedic elements as the audience observes Petruchio's unorthodox methods and Katherina's evolving reactions to his tactics. The external conflict between these two characters is fundamental to the play's exploration of gender dynamics, power structures, and the consequences of unconventional approaches to courtship and marriage during Shakespeare's time.