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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 30
Explanation and Analysis—Growing Vehemence:
In an emotionally fraught scene with her aunt, Catherine delves deep into the psychological and emotional turmoil she has recently undergone. Her hyperbolic language brings her intense feelings of betrayal and desperation about her romantic life to the fore:
[...] ‘How could you be so wicked, so cruel? What have I ever done to you; why can’t you leave me alone? I was afraid you would spoil everything; for you do spoil everything you touch! I was afraid of you all the time we were abroad; I had no rest when I thought that you were always talking to him.” Catherine went on with growing vehemence, pouring out in her bitterness [...]
Catherine's use of exaggerated language captures her profound emotional distress and desperation in this scene. She unleashes her anger at her aunt's meddling in a torrent of criticism and blame. Her claim that Aunt Penniman "spoils everything" she touches isn't something she means literally, as that would be impossible. However, it serves to communicate the depth of her pain and anger at losing Morris. This expression powerfully conveys the profound sense of betrayal Catherine feels, as she realizes the extent to which Aunt Penniman has manipulated and altered Morris's feelings towards her.
The syntax and punctuation James uses is full of exclamation marks and semi-colons, further emphasizing Catherine's heightened state. It's as if she can't quite finish each thought, as she's so distressed—and if she does finish her thoughts, she finishes them emphatically and dramatically. This seems more extraordinary because it's in stark contrast to her usual restrained and sober mode of speech. This intense outpouring captures her sense of being trapped and manipulated by those around her. It’s literally an outburst, as she can no longer hold in her hurt feelings.
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