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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
Part 2, Chapter 22: Captain Nemo’s Last Words
Explanation and Analysis—A Single Word or Gesture:
When Aronnax is preparing to escape from the submarine with Ned and Conseil, he uses a pair of hyperboles to capture his mixed feelings about leaving Captain Nemo:
Then a sudden thought terrified me. Captain Nemo had left his room. He was in the saloon, which I must cross to fly. There I should meet him for the last time. He would see me, perhaps speak to me. A gesture of his might destroy me, a single word chain me on board.
Despite the fact that he has just witnessed Nemo destroy a boat full of people—killing them in the process—Aronnax still feels strongly for him, as seen in his hyperbolic language: “a gesture of his might destroy me, a single word chain me on board.” Like many prisoners who develop caring feelings for their captors, Aronnax is torn about leaving.
The exaggerated language Aronnax uses highlights the intensity of his bond with Nemo—he is so attuned to the captain that he worries a single gesture or word will convince him to stay. It is no longer the threat of violence that is keeping him there, but Nemo's affection and care. This emotional connection adds to the suspense of the final chapters as readers wonder if Aronnax will stay or go.
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