Use of Exaggeration in Hard Times - 1545 Words

Dickens has cleverly used exaggeration in Hard Times, in the form of caricature and farce to criticize the theory of utilitarianism; the popular way of living in the Victorian age. Utilitarianism comes under the theory of consequentialism which dictates that one should always judge an action from its consequences, and follow the course which benefits the majority. By exaggerating his characters he essentially uses them to represent varying views on utilitarianism; ie; what it implies not only as the basis of society but also at the personal level. Through this hyperbolic representation of his characters he emphasizes what they each stand for; for example Thomas Gradgrind’s staunch belief in Fact’s as opposed to Sissy Jupe, who is the†¦show more content†¦These emotions also hint at Louisa’s potential for being a sensitive, loving and mature person (revealed in her loyalty to her family when she does not escape with Mr Harthouse). However, all in all, Lou isa’s role in the novel is a tragic one; to represent the failure of utilitarianism in its most dangerous form. Another character in the book who champions the utilitarian approach to life is Joseph Bounderby. While Mr Grandgrind seems to be the one who holds this ideology together, Joseph Bounderby represents it. A dear friend of Mr Gradgrind, he is introduced as a ‘big, loud man, with a stare, and a metallic laugh.’ He is a man whose greatest inspiration, pride and assets are himself; ‘ A man with a pervading appearance on him on being inflated like a balloon, and ready to start.’ The element of exaggeration in Bounderby’s character exists in his bloated self importance. He thrives on his identity of a self made man; claiming that if he could rise above poverty and attain success so could any other poor man. As h exclaims to Mrs Gadgrind, or anyone whose willing to listen; â€Å"Here I’m Mrs Gradgrind, anyhow, and nobody to thank for my being here, but myself.† His ego is amplified by his repetitive reminder of his rise from nothing to a à ¢â‚¬Ëœbanker, merchant, manufacturer and what not.’ But as it turns out even Mr Bounderby is aShow MoreRelatedImmigration : The Ongoing Question1419 Words   |  6 PagesUnited States and therefore all of them should be deported. Using Juvenalian and Horatian satire, satirists poke fun of illegal immigration through the satirical devices of parody, irony, and exaggeration in order to bring light to this very important issue facing the United States of America. One example of the use of Juvenalian satire and parody bringing light to illegal immigration can be seen in Daniel L.’s satirical work. 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