Define hyperbole and give an example from a poem or a story.

Define hyperbole and give an example from a poem or a story.

Hyperbole is a literary device that involves exaggeration for emphasis or dramatic effect. It is used to create a vivid and exaggerated image in the reader's mind.

An example of hyperbole can be found in the poem "The Highwayman" by Alfred Noyes:

"He'd a French cocked-hat on his forehead, a bunch of lace at his chin,
A coat of the claret velvet, and breeches of brown doe-skin;
They fitted with never a wrinkle: his boots were up to the thigh!
And he rode with a jewelled twinkle,
His pistol butts a-twinkle,
His rapier hilt a-twinkle, under the jewelled sky."

In this excerpt, the poet uses hyperbole to describe the Highwayman's appearance and attire. The exaggerated descriptions of his hat, coat, boots, and weapons create a larger-than-life image of the character, emphasizing his bold and flamboyant nature.