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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 32. Comparisons: Information Rejected
Explanation and Analysis—Hattersley's Complaints:
In a conversation between Milicent and Ralph Hattersley at Grassdale Manor, Ralph complains about Milicent’s kind nature, using a hyperbole in the process:
“I thought you always liked to be yielded to; and I can’t alter now.”
“I do like it,” replied [Hattersley], bringing her to him by another tug at her hair. “You mustn’t mind my talk Milly. A man must have something to grumble about; and if he can’t complain that his wife harries him to death with her perversity and ill-humour, he must complain that she wears him out with her kindness and gentleness.”
Related Themes:
Chapter 39. A Scheme of Escape
Explanation and Analysis—Ungrateful Woman:
After Hargrave tries to force himself on Helen sexually and she refuses him, he expresses his anger using a hyperbole, as seen in the following passage:
Unlock with LitCharts A+His face grew blanched with anger.
“I am satisfied,” he replied with bitter emphasis, “that you are the most cold-hearted, unnatural, ungrateful woman I ever yet beheld!”
“Ungrateful sir?”
“Ungrateful.”
“No, Mr Hargrave; I am not. For all the good you ever did me, or ever wished to do, I most sincerely thank you: for all the evil you have done me, and all you would have done, I pray God to pardon you, and make you of a better mind.”
Related Themes:
