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Definition of Hyperbole
Hyperbole is a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker exaggerates for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbolic statements are usually quite obvious exaggerations intended to emphasize a point... read full definition
Hyperbole is a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker exaggerates for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbolic statements are usually quite obvious exaggerations... read full definition
Hyperbole is a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker exaggerates for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbolic statements... read full definition
Act 1
Explanation and Analysis—Your Kingdoms for a Kiss:
In Act 1, while trying to awaken Antony to the ways in which he has been struck and even duped by love, Ventidius criticizes his devotion to Cleopatra and hyperbolically rants about just how little it might take for Antony to give up his power to her:
They said they would not fight for Cleopatra.
Why should they fight, indeed, to make her conquer,
And make you more a slave? To gain your kingdoms,
Which, for a kiss at your next midnight feast,
You’ll sell to her? Then she new names her jewels,
And calls this diamond such or such a tax;
Each pendant in her ear shall be a province.
Related Themes:
Act 2
Explanation and Analysis—Not All the Diamonds:
In Act 2, Ventidius rejects Cleopatra’s efforts to win his favor through gifts of jewels and wealth, using hyperbole to emphasize his extreme objection to everything she represents:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Tell her I’ll none on’t:
I’m not ashamed of honest poverty.
Not all the diamonds of the East can bribe
Ventidius from his faith. I hope to see
These, and the rest of all her sparkling store,
Where they shall more deservingly be placed.
Related Themes:
