Why does Shakespeare include Mercutio's comic speech?

Mercutio's comic speeches and banter often serve the following purposes

1.Comic Relief: Shakespeare used comic characters and moments to provide relief from the intense and tragic elements of the play. Mercutio's humor can serve as a counterbalance to the serious themes of love, conflict, and fate in "Romeo and Juliet."

2.Character Development: Mercutio's speeches reveal aspects of his personality, such as his quick wit, intelligence, and irreverence. This adds depth to his character and provides insight into the social dynamics of the time.

3.Foreshadowing: Some of Mercutio's speeches contain elements of foreshadowing, hinting at the tragic events that will unfold. In "Romeo and Juliet," Mercutio's death is a turning point in the play, leading to the tragedy that befalls the titular characters.

4.Social Commentary: Mercutio often engages in wordplay and clever language, contributing to the play's exploration of language, rhetoric, and social norms. His speeches can offer commentary on societal attitudes, particularly regarding love and honor.

5.Entertainment: Shakespeare's plays were written for a diverse audience, and including humorous elements, especially through characters like Mercutio, made the plays more engaging and accessible to a wide range of people.

Ultimately, Mercutio's character and his comic speeches add layers of complexity to the play, enhancing both the entertainment value and the thematic richness of "Romeo and Juliet."