Arguments in favor of Sir Patrick's decision:
1. Loyalty and Duty: As a loyal knight and a skilled sea captain, Sir Patrick felt obliged to obey the king's orders. He set sail in compliance with his duty and the king's wishes.
2. Honor and Bravery: Sir Patrick's decision could be seen as an act of bravery and honor. He was determined to fulfill his mission even facing challenging circumstances.
3. Experience and Expertise: Sir Patrick was known to be an experienced and skilled seafarer. He might have believed in his ship's capabilities and his crew's experience to handle adverse weather conditions.
Arguments against Sir Patrick's decision:
1. Prudence and safety: Some might argue that Sir Patrick should have exercised more prudence and considered the safety of his crew and ship. Ignoring the weather warnings could be interpreted as reckless decision-making.
2. Alternative choices: Critics may argue that Sir Patrick could have sought alternative options or waited for more favorable weather before embarking on the voyage.
3. Unforeseen consequences: Despite his expertise, Sir Patrick might not have anticipated the severity of the storm and its consequences, resulting in the tragic outcome.
In conclusion, whether Sir Patrick Spens made the right decision remains a matter of debate and various interpretations. The historical context, loyalty to the king, honor, and experience contribute to the arguments supporting his decision. However, the consideration of safety and unforeseen consequences raises valid objections to his actions.