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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
Letters 1–10
Explanation and Analysis—Accomplished Coquette:
In Letter 4, Mr. De Courcey writes to his sister on the subject of some rumors about Lady Susan's character. In this letter, DeCourcey utilizes hyperbole in his description of Lady Susan:
I congratulate you and Mr. Vernon on being about to receive into your family, the most accomplished Coquette in England.
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Letters 11–20
Explanation and Analysis—Frederica's Impression:
In Letter 18, written to Lady De Courcey, Mrs. Vernon further emphasizes the good first impression left on her by Frederica—an impression now cemented in her mind over the course of a few days' acquaintance. To get this point across to her mother, Mrs. Vernon again utilizes hyperbole to describe Frederica:
Unlock with LitCharts A+There cannot be a more gentle, affectionate heart, or more obliging manners, when acting without restraint.
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Explanation and Analysis—Meeting Frederica:
Whatever negative bias Mrs. Vernon maintains against Lady Susan does not extend to Lady Susan's daughter, Frederica Vernon. The disparity between Mrs. Vernon's views of the two women is emphasized upon Mrs. Vernon's first meeting her niece. She utilizes hyperbole to describe her to Lady De Courcey in Letter 17:
Unlock with LitCharts A+They came in when we were at Tea, and I never saw any creature look so frightened in my life as Frederica when she entered the room.
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Letters 31–41
Explanation and Analysis—Lady De Courcey's Joy:
Upon hearing that Reginald and Lady Susan are divided forever, Lady De Courcey pens this joyous, hyperbolic statement in Letter 40, corresponding with her daughter:
Unlock with LitCharts A+This is the most joyful hour [Reginald] has ever given us, since the day of his birth.
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Explanation and Analysis—De Courcey and Mr Johnson:
In the following excerpt from Letter 38, written by Mrs. Johnson and addressed to Lady Susan, Mrs. Johnson discusses her first impression of Reginald De Courcey. Much like Lady Susan and Mrs. Vernon, Mrs. Johnson makes use of hyperbole in the description of her first impressions:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I am really delighted with him, he is full as handsome I think as Manwaring, and with such an open goodhumoured Countenance that one cannot help loving him at first sight.— Mr. Johnson and he are the greatest friends in the World.
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