Meaning: The quote "How well he's read, to reason against reading!" is from William Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice." This line is spoken by Gratiano in Act 1, Scene 1. The play is a complex and thought-provoking work that explores themes of love, friendship, justice, and prejudice. In this particular line, Gratiano is expressing surprise at the fact that someone who is well-read is arguing against the value of reading.

The quote reflects a paradoxical situation where a person's actions seem to contradict their own knowledge or experience. It suggests that the individual in question is knowledgeable about the benefits of reading, yet is arguing against it. The irony lies in the fact that someone who has taken the time to read and educate themselves would then argue against the very activity that has contributed to their knowledge and understanding.

In the context of the play, this line can be interpreted in several ways. It may be seen as a commentary on the hypocrisy or inconsistency of the character being referenced. It could also be a reflection on the human tendency to hold contradictory beliefs or to act in ways that are inconsistent with our own knowledge or principles.

From a broader perspective, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the value of education and the pursuit of knowledge. It highlights the irony of someone who is well-read, yet fails to recognize the importance of reading and learning. It invites us to consider the ways in which we may sometimes overlook or undervalue the very things that have contributed to our own growth and understanding.

Shakespeare's works are known for their rich and multi-layered meanings, and this quote is no exception. It encapsulates a universal truth about human behavior and the complexities of our beliefs and actions. The quote also invites us to reflect on our own attitudes towards reading and education, and to consider the ways in which we may sometimes take for granted the value of these pursuits.

In conclusion, the quote "How well he's read, to reason against reading!" from Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" is a thought-provoking and ironic statement that challenges us to consider the contradictions and complexities of human behavior. It serves as a reminder of the value of education and the pursuit of knowledge, and invites us to reflect on the ways in which we may sometimes overlook or undervalue the very things that have contributed to our own growth and understanding.