What must Tranio do, according to Hortensio, in order to pursue Bianca?

• A. Find a new fiancé for Katharine
• B. Pay Petruchio and be a polite gentleman
• C. Learn Latin to woo Bianca
• D. Hire a musician to entertain Bianca

Answer: (B)

A central idea here is that courtship in this play relies on appearances, money, and social polish. Hortensio’s plan for Bianca’s suitors hinges on presenting a refined, well-supported image rather than a rough or flashy approach. So, Tranio is told to ally with Petruchio and behave as a courteous, gentlemanly figure who can woo Bianca. The idea of paying Petruchio symbolizes using financial and social leverage to secure cooperation and to keep the deception coherent with Baptista’s expectations for a respectable suitor. By presenting himself as a polite, well-heeled gentleman, Tranio’s disguise as a worthy, credible suitor is strengthened, making Bianca more receptive within the family’s social dynamics. The other options don’t fit this strategic frame: finding Katharine’s fiancé, learning Latin, or hiring a musician aren’t the moves Hortensio emphasizes for pursuing Bianca in this plan.