Act III, Scene 1

In this scene, the two tutors, Cambio (Lucentio) and Licio (Hortensio) fight for Bianca. They argue about which lesson should come first, language or music. Bianca settles it by taking the language lesson while Hortensio tunes his instrument for the music lesson, which will soon follow. When the language lesson starts, Lucentio, in undertones, informs Bianca of his true identity and his desire to woo her; she responds cautiously.

When it is time for the music lesson, Hortensio presents her with a love poem to convey his adoration, but Bianca is not impressed. Lucentio, not trusting Hortensio, remains to watch the lesson. When Bianca is called away, the tutors exit.

In this brief scene filled with comic moments, the sub-plot is advanced. Hortensio and Lucentio, both disguised as tutors, vie for BiancaÂ’s attention, almost like children. Their over eagerness and distrust for each other create humor throughout the scene. Lucentio secretively reveals his intentions to Bianca during a language lesson, and feels encouraged when she does not discourage him. In contrast, Bianca very openly ridicules HortensioÂ’s love poem, showing she has no interest in him.

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