What is a key characteristic of hyperbole in literature?

A key characteristic of hyperbole in literature is its use of exaggeration for emphasis. Hyperbole involves taking a statement to an extreme level to highlight a particular point or convey strong emotions. This literary device is often employed to create vivid images in the reader's mind or to convey the intensity of a character's feelings or experiences.

For instance, if a character says, "I've told you a million times," this hyperbolic statement is not meant to be taken literally but serves the purpose of emphasizing frustration or impatience. The exaggeration draws attention to the speaker's feelings, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative and engaging the reader more deeply.

While the other options provide different literary techniques or styles, they do not encapsulate the essence of hyperbole, which specifically revolves around the idea of exaggerated statements.