Figurative Language Circle 7.

Definition: The use of intentional exaggeration in order to make a bold statement.

This definition leads to the first type of figurative language, Hyperbole. Within line 3,
Dante uses hyperbole to describe the landscape of the plunge in the first round of
circle seven.

Line 1: The scene the opens from the edge of the pit

Line 2: was mountainous and such desolation

Line 3: that every eye would shun the sight of it.

Of course, everyone thinks differently. Not everyone would “shun the sight” of the
first descent into the circle seven of Hell. Some might find this statement interesting
and fascinating. Therefore, the statement that “every eye would shun the sight of
it” is the exaggerated point in this section.

As it was in Circle 6, Personification, was used in Circle 7 Round 1. Again the

definition of personification is to give nonliving objects human features. Within Line
36, Dante makes it relevant of the type of language he is using.

Line 36: This rock has not yet felt the ruinous blast.

Of course, a rock is a rock, hard and well what else is there? Humans feel blasts,
whether it be ruinous or not, but rocks do not. Therefore, personification is being
used once again.

Again, as it was stated in Circle 6, Alliteration. Alliteration can be defined as a

pattern of sounds that includes the repetition of consonant words. Within Line 89,
Dante is using the form of language by the repetition of the letter “s”

Line 89: From singing Alleluia, the sublime spirit.

Within this line, the letter “s” is constantly noticed, and stated within this sentence.
Therefore stressing the form of language, Alliteration.