Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

by Lewis Carroll

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland: Hyperbole 1 key example

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 8 - The Queen's Croquet-Ground
Explanation and Analysis—The Queen of Hearts:

Carroll often uses hyperbole, or exaggerated overstatement, to describe the Red Queen. His extreme language underscores how volatile and angry her character becomes when people are disobedient. In Chapter 8, the Queen orders Alice dead after she discovers the painted roses:

The Queen turned crimson with fury, and, after glaring at her for a moment like a wild beast, screamed “Off with her head! Off with—”

“Nonsense!” said Alice, very loudly and decidedly, and the Queen was silent.

Chapter 12 - Alice's Evidence
Explanation and Analysis—The Queen of Hearts:

Carroll often uses hyperbole, or exaggerated overstatement, to describe the Red Queen. His extreme language underscores how volatile and angry her character becomes when people are disobedient. In Chapter 8, the Queen orders Alice dead after she discovers the painted roses:

The Queen turned crimson with fury, and, after glaring at her for a moment like a wild beast, screamed “Off with her head! Off with—”

“Nonsense!” said Alice, very loudly and decidedly, and the Queen was silent.

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