I am not bound to please thee with my answer

I am not bound to please thee with my answer

In William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," the character Portia famously declares, "I am not bound to please thee with my answer." This line is spoken during the trial scene, where Portia, disguised as a male lawyer, is defending Antonio against Shylock's claim to a pound of his flesh.

This declaration encapsulates Portia's strength, independence, and refusal to be swayed by the expectations or demands of others. It is a powerful assertion of her autonomy and agency, as she asserts her right to speak her mind and make her own decisions without being beholden to anyone else's approval or validation.