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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
1. Oroonoko in Coramantien
Explanation and Analysis—Hyperbole and Genre:
Behn's use of hyperbole in Oroonoko is frequent enough to be stylistically significant. This is typical of both chivalric romance and epic, genres that reflect on larger-than-life emotions and events. As such, exaggerated, hyperbolic language is a necessity. In Oroonoko, the prince himself is the one most often described using hyperbole, as he is the titular and most otherworldly character:
The whole proportion and air of his face was so noble, and exactly formed, that, bating his colour, there could be nothing in nature more beautiful, agreeable, and handsome.
Though it is undoubtedly hyperbole to state that Oroonoko is the most beautiful thing in all of nature, it is necessary for the story that he be so exceptional—not only because the genre demands it of such a hero, but because the historical circumstances and subject of the story demand it. Behn's readership in England likely would not tolerate such a tale if Oroonoko were not exceptional. Even then, she feels the need to preface her hyperbole with the statement "bating [excepting] his color." The sentence preceding this passage sheds further light on the necessity of positioning Oroonoko as an exceptional figure:
His mouth, the finest shaped that could be seen; far from those great turned lips, which are so natural to the rest of the Negroes.
It is necessary for Behn to describe Oroonoko's mouth using hyperbole, for he must—in the logic of this novella—adhere as closely to European beauty standards as possible for his enslavement to appear unjust to a deeply racist English audience.
Related Themes:
4. Oroonoko’s Revolt
Explanation and Analysis—Caesar's Fighting:
During the revolt, Behn compares Caesar (Oroonoko) to a Fury, illuminating the extent of his rage against the colonizers, as well as his willingness to fight for his liberty:
Caesar was very much toiled with the bustle of the day, for he had fought like a Fury, and what mischief was done he and Tuscan performed alone.
This hyperbolic simile contains an allusion to the Furies (Erinyes), female deities of vengeance from Greek mythology. In the Iliad, these goddesses are described as women that "under earth take vengeance on men, whosoever hath sworn a false oath." Just as the Furies (Erinyes) mete out vengeance on oath-breakers, so does Oroonoko seek vengeance on the English colonizers who violated the principles of honor and refused him his freedom. Oroonoko places great value on chivalric principles and the power of oaths and promises. To not make good on one's promise, violating the contract of the spoken word, is a terrible offense in Oroonoko's mind. As he slowly realizes that his captors have no intention of freeing him—despite promising otherwise—his righteous indignation grows. Oroonoko's principles are more steadfast than those of his Christian captors, a reality that discredits the entire moral hierarchy of colonial enterprise.
Related Themes:
