I would be loath to cast away my speech; for, besides that it is excellently penned, I have taken great pains to con it

I would be loath to cast away my speech; for, besides that it is excellently penned, I have taken great pains to con it

In William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice," the character Portia speaks these words in Act 1, Scene 2. Portia is a wealthy heiress who is bound by her father's will to marry the man who chooses the correct casket out of three options. In this quote, Portia expresses her reluctance to give up her ability to speak and express herself, as she has worked hard to perfect her speech.

Shakespeare's use of language in this quote is significant, as it highlights the importance of communication and self-expression. Portia values her ability to articulate her thoughts and feelings, recognizing the power of words to convey meaning and influence others. By stating that her speech is "excellently penned," Portia emphasizes the skill and craftsmanship that goes into effective communication.

Furthermore, Portia's reference to the effort she has put into learning and memorizing her speech reflects her dedication to mastering the art of rhetoric. In Shakespeare's time, the ability to speak eloquently and persuasively was highly valued, especially among the upper class. Portia's commitment to honing her speaking skills demonstrates her intelligence and determination to succeed in a society that often limited women's opportunities for education and self-expression.

Additionally, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the power dynamics at play in the play. Portia is a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to assert herself and challenge societal norms. By refusing to give up her speech, she asserts her autonomy and agency, refusing to be silenced or controlled by others.

Overall, Shakespeare's inclusion of this quote in "The Merchant of Venice" serves to highlight the importance of language and communication in shaping our identities and influencing our relationships with others. Portia's words remind us of the value of self-expression and the power of words to convey meaning and emotion.