Question

Using your understanding of diction and tone, select the best meaning for Romeo's lines in the following section from Romeo and Juliet:

TYBALT
Romeo, the hate I bear thee can afford
No better term than this,—thou art a villain.

ROMEO
Tybalt, the reason that I have to love thee
Doth much excuse the appertaining rage
To such a greeting: villain am I none;
Therefore farewell; I see thou know'st me not.

TYBALT
Boy, this shall not excuse the injuries
That thou hast done me; therefore turn and draw.

Answer 1

ROMEO
I do protest, I never injured thee,
But love thee better than thou canst devise,
Till thou shalt know the reason of my love:
And so, good Capulet,—which name I tender
As dearly as my own,—be satisfied.

Romeo's diction indicates that he is angry and hoping to start a fight.
Romeo's diction indicates that he is trying to stay calm and be polite.
Romeo's diction indicates that he is afraid of talking to Tybalt in public.
Romeo's diction indicates that he thinks he is better than the Capulets.

I feel like it can't be A or D, but I can't choose between B and C.

Answer 2

I believe it is B, because Romeo doesn't seem to show signs of fear, anger, or hostility.

Answer 3

That's what I put, lol.
Thanks.

Answer 4

No problem ^_^