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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
Key Examples in The Devoted Friend
Hyperbole
Explanation and Analysis—Empty Words:
Throughout the story, the Miller shares a number of exaggerated, didactic thoughts on friendship. These hyperbolic reflections are marked by irony, since his grand ideas and reflections tend to clash directly with his own behavior. However, it is important to note that, because he never intentionally says the opposite of what he means, the Miller isn't using verbal irony. The irony of his words and deeds are lost on him, but it's apparent to the Linnet and to the reader. By linking the Miller's characterization with situational irony and hyperbole, Wilde lays bare the obliviousness of those who justify their exploitation of vulnerable people with the conviction that they are morally or intellectually superior.
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Explanation and Analysis—No Garden So Lovely:
Early in the Linnet's story, he describes Hans's garden in great detail. The beauty and purity of this imagery verges on hyperbole, which serves to foreshadow for the reader that, over the course of the story, the garden will likely face the threat of ruin.
After the Linnet's introductory "Once upon a time," he establishes the story's main character as "an honest little fellow named Hans." Although he for the most part seems ordinary and unassuming, Hans's main identifying feature is that he works in his garden every day. According to the Linnet, "there was no garden so lovely as his" in the whole countryside. He goes on to name all the flowers that grow there:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Sweet-Williams grew there, and Gilly-flowers, and Shepherds’-purses, and Fair-maids of France. There were damask Roses, and yellow Roses, lilac Crocuses and gold, purple Violets and white. Columbine and Lady-smock, Marjoram and Wild Basil, the Cowslip and the Flower-de-luce, the Daffodil and the Clove-Pink bloomed or blossomed in their proper order as the months went by, one flower taking another flower’s place, so that there were always beautiful things to look at, and pleasant odours to smell.
Related Themes:
