Hyperbole

Macbeth

by William Shakespeare

Macbeth: Hyperbole 1 key example

Read our modern English translation.

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 2, scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Stepp'd In So Far:

At multiple points throughout Macbeth, characters utilize hyperbole in an attempt to describe the intensity of their emotions. Following the death of Duncan in Act 2, Scene 2, for instance, Macbeth uses hyperbole to illustrate the immensity of his guilt:

Will all great Neptune's ocean wash the blood
Clean from my hand? No, this my hand will rather
The multitudinous seas incarnadine,
Making the green one red.

Act 2, scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Stepp'd In So Far:

At multiple points throughout Macbeth, characters utilize hyperbole in an attempt to describe the intensity of their emotions. Following the death of Duncan in Act 2, Scene 2, for instance, Macbeth uses hyperbole to illustrate the immensity of his guilt:

Will all great Neptune's ocean wash the blood
Clean from my hand? No, this my hand will rather
The multitudinous seas incarnadine,
Making the green one red.

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Act 5, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Stepp'd In So Far:

At multiple points throughout Macbeth, characters utilize hyperbole in an attempt to describe the intensity of their emotions. Following the death of Duncan in Act 2, Scene 2, for instance, Macbeth uses hyperbole to illustrate the immensity of his guilt:

Will all great Neptune's ocean wash the blood
Clean from my hand? No, this my hand will rather
The multitudinous seas incarnadine,
Making the green one red.

Unlock with LitCharts A+