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How does Romeo respond to Mercutio's ridicule? Act 1: Scene 4

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Answer: REWORD BELOW | I believe this is right from what I have read.

In Act 1, Scene 4 of William Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," Mercutio engages in playful banter with Romeo about the nature of love. When Romeo seems withdrawn and melancholic, Mercutio teases him, saying: "Why, is not this better now than groaning for love? / Now art thou sociable, now art thou Romeo; now art thou what thou art, by art as well as by nature." Romeo responds by saying: "If I profane with my unworthiest hand / This holy shrine, the gentle fine is this: / My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand / To smooth that rough touch with a tender kiss." Romeo's response indicates that he is willing to play along with Mercutio's teasing, but his mind is still preoccupied with thoughts of love. He speaks in a poetic and romantic manner, suggesting that he is deeply affected by the idea of love and longing for physical affection from his beloved.

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