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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
2. Of Monarchy and Hereditary Succession
Explanation and Analysis—Hyperbole and Persuasion:
An important aspect of persuasive writing, particularly in political propaganda, is hyperbolic language. Paine makes use of hyperbole throughout Common Sense to emphasize the importance of his cause and issue a call to action. For example, at the beginning of the third section, Paine uses hyperbolic language to persuade his audience of the worthiness of revolting against the monarchy:
The sun never shined on a cause of greater worth.
In the second section, when arguing against the efficacy of hereditary succession, Paine also uses hyperbolic language:
The most plausible plea, which hath ever been offered in favor of hereditary succession, is, that it preserves a nation from civil wars; and were this true, it would be weighty; whereas, it is the most barefaced falsity ever imposed upon mankind.
In both of the passages quoted, Paine makes no attempt to persuade the reader through rational argumentation, turning instead to overblown statements that emphasize his own strength of feeling on the topic at hand. Clearly, Paine's cause is not the most noble or worthy cause in all of history; nor is it the most untrue statement in all of human history to say that hereditary succession is justified because it prevents civil wars. These hyperbolic statements are not intended as facts, but rather as persuasive exaggerations.
Related Themes:
3. Thoughts on the Present State of American Affairs
Explanation and Analysis—Hyperbole and Persuasion:
An important aspect of persuasive writing, particularly in political propaganda, is hyperbolic language. Paine makes use of hyperbole throughout Common Sense to emphasize the importance of his cause and issue a call to action. For example, at the beginning of the third section, Paine uses hyperbolic language to persuade his audience of the worthiness of revolting against the monarchy:
The sun never shined on a cause of greater worth.
In the second section, when arguing against the efficacy of hereditary succession, Paine also uses hyperbolic language:
The most plausible plea, which hath ever been offered in favor of hereditary succession, is, that it preserves a nation from civil wars; and were this true, it would be weighty; whereas, it is the most barefaced falsity ever imposed upon mankind.
In both of the passages quoted, Paine makes no attempt to persuade the reader through rational argumentation, turning instead to overblown statements that emphasize his own strength of feeling on the topic at hand. Clearly, Paine's cause is not the most noble or worthy cause in all of history; nor is it the most untrue statement in all of human history to say that hereditary succession is justified because it prevents civil wars. These hyperbolic statements are not intended as facts, but rather as persuasive exaggerations.
Related Themes:
