Final answer:
Mercutio is kidding when he says Benvolio likes to fight, as Benvolio is portrayed as a peacemaker who prefers to avoid confrontation, demonstrated when he breaks up a fight between the Montague and Capulet men in the play 'Romeo and Juliet.' Option number C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mercutio says that Benvolio likes to fight. We know that Mercutio's kidding because Benvolio breaks up the fight amongst the Montague and Capulet men. This is shown when Benvolio says, “Part, fools! Put up your swords; you know not what you do.” Contrary to being someone who seeks fights, Benvolio tries to maintain peace. In his interactions, especially regarding the feud between the families, Benvolio advocates for calm and is the voice of reason, often attempting to steer others away from conflict.
Throughout Romeo and Juliet, Benvolio has been portrayed as a peacemaker and a rational character, demonstrating the use of calm dialogue as a tool for preventing altercations with Tybalt and others. While Mercutio teases him about being quick to draw his sword, it is clear from the actions of Benvolio that he prefers to avoid unnecessary confrontation. Therefore, the correct option to how we know Mercutio is kidding would be: C) He breaks up the fight amongst the Montague and Capulet men.