It is said that Arragon is too proud and self-opinionated in the Merchant of Venice (Act 2 Scene 9). Do you agree with this statement? Give two reasons to justify your answer.
As an AI language model, I do not have personal opinions, but I can provide an analysis of the character of Arragon in The Merchant of Venice.
In Act 2 Scene 9, Portia describes Arragon as "too full of himself" and "self-opinionated." These descriptions suggest that Arragon is excessively proud and arrogant. Here are two reasons to justify this statement:
1. Arragon's behavior during the casket test shows his arrogance. He chooses the silver casket, believing that he is worthy of Portia's hand in marriage. However, his choice is incorrect, and he is denied the opportunity to marry Portia. This shows that Arragon's pride and self-opinion have clouded his judgment.
2. Arragon's language and actions also demonstrate his arrogance. He speaks in a grandiose manner, using flowery language and making grandiose gestures. For example, he says, "Let me choose, for as I am, I live upon the rack" (2.9.29-30), suggesting that his decision is of great importance. This behavior reinforces the idea that Arragon is too proud and self-opinionated.
Overall, the evidence suggests that Arragon is indeed too proud and self-opinionated in The Merchant of Venice.