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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
Act 1, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Flattery:
Prior to his first confrontation with Henry Bolingbroke, Thomas Mowbray, the Duke of York, uses hyperbole in praising the King and offering him well-wishes. Mowbray greets the King, stating:
Each day still better other’s happiness
Until the heavens, envying earth’s good hap,
Add an immortal title to your crown.
Related Themes:
Act 1, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—My Dancing Soul:
Thomas Mowbray hyperbolically suggests that his excitement at facing his opponent, Henry Bolingbroke, in their upcoming duel surpasses even that of a prisoner upon being released from prison. Speaking before Bolingbroke, the King, and a crowd of nobles, Mowbray states:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Never did captive with a freer heart
Cast off his chains of bondage and embrace
His golden uncontrolled enfranchisement
More than my dancing soul doth celebrate
This feast of battle with mine adversary.
Related Themes:
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Lion and Lamb:
Edmund of Langley, the Duke of York, uses hyperbole in praising the former King Edward. Speaking to his nephew, King Richard II, he states:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I am the last of noble Edward’s sons,
Of whom thy father, Prince of Wales, was first.
In war was never lion raged more fierce,
In peace was never gentle lamb more mild,
Than was that young and princely gentleman.
Related Themes:
Act 2, Scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Drinking Oceans Dry:
Green hyperbolizes the difficulty of the Duke of York’s task in pacifying the rebellious lords. Speaking frankly with his companions Bushy and Bagot after the departure of the Queen, he states:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Alas, poor duke, the task he undertakes
Is numb’ring sands and drinking oceans dry.
Where one on his side fights, thousands will fly.
Farewell at once, for once, for all, and ever
