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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 6
Explanation and Analysis—Love as Sensation:
In Chapter 6, Patroclus revels in the intimate friendship developing between himself and Achilles. The two boys seem to understand one another with ease. Patroclus uses hyperbole to describe this quick, effortless familiarity, and the hyper-awareness that comes with it:
I did not have to worry that I was too slender or too slow. This and this and this! I taught him how to skip stones, and he taught me how to carve wood. I could feel every nerve in my body, every brush of air against my skin.
Chapter 22
Explanation and Analysis—Helen of Troy:
In the following example of hyperbole from Chapter 22, Achilles and Patroclus discuss Helen's beauty—and the stories spun by those compelled to sail for her.
Unlock with LitCharts A+"She used to be known as the most beautiful woman in our kingdoms. Now they say she's the most beautiful woman in the world." [Achilles] put on his best singer's falsetto. "A thousand ships have sailed for her.”
A thousand was the number Agamemnon’s bards had started using; one thousand, one hundred and eighty-six didn’t fit well in a line of verse.
Related Themes:
