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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
Chapter 51
Explanation and Analysis—Thought:
Daniel does not take his origins for granted, lacking any information about them. He is so intensely preoccupied with his birth family that, when he meets Leonora in Chapter 51, he utilizes hyperbole to inform her that he has "thought of [her] more than of any other being in the world":
She paused a moment while the lines were coming back into her face, and then said in a colder tone, “I am your mother. But you can have no love for me.”
“I have thought of you more than of any other being in the world,” said Deronda, his voice trembling nervously.
Related Themes:
Chapter 69
Explanation and Analysis—Monster:
In the following example of hyperbole from Chapter 69, Hans makes a clear overstatement in referring to Daniel as a monster:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“Is it absolutely necessary that Mrs. Grandcourt should marry again?” said Deronda, ready to add that Hans’s success in constructing her fortunes hitherto had not been enough to warrant a new attempt.
“You monster!” retorted Hans, “do you want her to wear weeds for you all her life—burn herself in perpetual suttee while you are alive and merry?”
Related Themes:
Chapter 70
Explanation and Analysis—The Marriage:
In the following example of hyperbole from Chapter 70, the narrator describes Daniel and Mirah's wedding day—a cause for widespread celebration within the Jewish community:
Unlock with LitCharts A+And the velvet canopy never covered a more goodly bride and bridegroom, to whom their people might more wisely wish offspring; more truthful lips never touched the sacrament marriage-wine; the marriage blessing never gathered stronger promise of fulfillment than in the integrity of their mutual pledge.
Related Themes:
