The Change Agent in The Taming of the Shrew
Dr. Fatima Falih Ahmed al-Badrani

Abstract
That Shakespeare has surpassing insight and knowledge into human psychology is indisputable. What is amazing is that his plays remain great and inspiring not only to those interested in literature or human nature, but also to those scholars in such fields as political sciences and administration. One of the many topics tackled in Shakespeare's plays is change. This does not mean the change that the protagonists undergo during the course of action, but the change they effect. Effecting change in human behaviour, ways of thinking, beliefs, customs, and so on is not an easy task, and may face resistance. Therefore, it must be undertaken with persistence, perseverance, patience, and tolerance. The persons who effect change are known as change agents. A change agent is a person who has certain traits and must have definite goals and strategy, as well as methods in order that their efforts be successful and yield positive results. Shakespeare’s play, The Taming of the Shrew, is one good example of the shaping of person-hood by effecting change. Change, or transformation, is one of the themes in the play. It involves physical disguise, changes in attitude and behaviour, and even linguistic transformation. The play also shows how love can transform any individual into a new person. Marriage, too, brings about the most dramatic and profound transformations in both men and women. Shakespeare's point seems to be that identity and meaning are never fixed. The research-paper focuses on the character of Petruchio as a change agent who is able to transform Katherina from a shrewish woman to a sensible wife.

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