Answer: C) by refusing to treat Romeo’s romance seriously.
Explanation: In the given excerpt from "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, we can see a conversatio between Benvolio, Mercutio and Romeo, where Mercutio teases Romeo for being in love. He compares Juliet with Cleopatra, Helen and Thisbe, and makes fun of Romeo's actions. By refusing to treat Romeo's romance seriousle, Mercutio offers comic relief in the excerpt.
