Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) Practice Test

What is hyperbole primarily used for in literature?

1. To introduce characters

2. To emphasize or exaggerate

3. To provide worldbuilding

4. To create suspense

The correct answer is: To emphasize or exaggerate

Hyperbole is primarily used in literature to emphasize or exaggerate certain characteristics, feelings, or situations. It serves to make a point more vividly and to evoke strong emotions from the reader. This technique allows authors to convey intensity or importance beyond literal interpretations, making a concept more relatable or memorable. For instance, an author might describe a character's hunger as "so hungry I could eat a horse," using hyperbole to stress the character's extreme hunger in a way that is humorous and impactful. By amplifying a situation, hyperbole effectively captures the reader's attention and enhances the emotional tone of the narrative. Other choices such as introducing characters, providing worldbuilding, or creating suspense do not directly relate to the primary function of hyperbole. Each of those elements serves different purposes within a story and does not utilize exaggeration in the distinctive way hyperbole does.