Question

What does the speaker mean by saying “I am that I am”?

• A. He is expressing uncertainty about his identity
• B. He is claiming superiority over others
• C. He refuses to change who he is for others
• D. He is trying to convey a sense of regret for his past actions

Answer 1

Answer:

C. He refuses to change who he is for others

• “I am that I am” is a declaration of self-acceptance and defiance. The speaker is stating that he is true to himself and won’t conform to others’ expectations or judgments.

• This line reinforces the sonnet's theme of rejecting hypocrisy and false moral superiority.