Even after his friends showed him clear proof that his plan would fail, Marcus refused to listen, insisting that he alone knew best and dismissing every suggestion they made.
Which word best describes Marcus's attitude in the passage?
- determined
- assertive
- skeptical
- obstinate (correct answer)
Explanation: Look closely at how Marcus acts: even after seeing "clear proof" that his plan will fail, he refuses to listen, insists he "alone knew best," and dismisses every suggestion. The word obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change your mind, even when you are clearly wrong. That matches Marcus exactly. "Determined" is close, but it praises someone for sticking to a worthwhile goal despite hard work—here Marcus is criticized for ignoring good advice, not admired. "Assertive" means confidently stating your own opinions and needs; a person can be assertive while still listening to others, but Marcus rejects proof entirely, which goes past being assertive. "Skeptical" means doubting or questioning something before accepting it, which sounds like it could fit—but a skeptical person weighs evidence, while Marcus refuses to consider the clear proof at all. Only obstinate captures someone who stubbornly clings to a wrong idea no matter what he is shown.