Short Answer 
Hyperbole is an exaggerated literary device used to emphasize strong emotions or create vivid imagery. In Mark Twain’s work, such as “The $1,000,000 Bank-Note,” hyperbole serves to enhance storytelling by emphasizing themes like wealth and ambition, while also contributing to character development.
Step 1: Understand Hyperbole
Hyperbole is a literary device that employs extreme exaggeration to create emphasis or convey strong feelings. This technique often enhances the impact of the narrative and can evoke a more vivid image in the reader’s mind. Recognizing hyperbole often requires understanding the context in which it’s used, as it is not meant to be taken literally.
Step 2: Identify Examples in Context
To pinpoint specific instances of hyperbole in Mark Twain’s work, such as in ‘The $1,000,000 Bank-Note’, consider the descriptions and situations presented. Look for statements that seem implausibly exaggerated, which are designed to emphasize a point. Examples may include:
- ‘The bank of gold rose to the skies.’
- ‘His happiness was so vast, it could fill the ocean.’
- ‘I was richer than Croesus in a single afternoon.’
Step 3: Analyze the Purpose of Hyperbole
The goal of using hyperbole is to enhance the storytelling by adding dramatic flair and helping readers grasp the intensity of emotions or situations. Analyze how Twain’s hyperbolic expressions contribute to character development or the story’s theme. In particular, consider how such exaggerations emphasize wealth, ambition, or social commentary, making the text more engaging and memorable.