Role of Hyperbole in Reinforcing Positive Politeness Strategies in the Qabus-nama Based on Brown and Levinson's Politeness Theory

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.A. Graduate of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mazandaran

2 professor in Persian literature of University of Mazandaran-Babolsar

10.22108/rpll.2026.149780.2591

Abstract

Iranian culture is founded upon shame, and good conduct is predicated on status, prestige, respect, and social approval, whose absence leads to a sense of shame. This approach signifies an interactive relationship at the interpersonal, group, and even national levels, and is referred to as "face" or the observance of politeness principles. Face entails foundations and strategies whose propagation and endurance necessitate education. Didactic texts specifically assume this responsibility. The Qabus-nama is a valuable legacy in which 'Unsur al-Ma'ali has endeavored to teach moral and pedagogical concepts to the audience. One of his techniques for teaching positive politeness strategies more effectively is using hyperbole. This article seeks to analyze the role of hyperbole in reinforcing positive politeness strategies in the Qabus-nama based on Brown and Levinson's politeness theory, employing a descriptive-analytical method and library-based data collection, and to answer how hyperbole reinforces positive politeness strategies. According to the research findings, the author of the Qabus-nama applies positive politeness strategies to mitigate face threat and employs empathetic hyperbole to reinforce them. He elevates laudatory hyperbole beyond mere praise and enhances the value of the addressee's action through linguistic devices. Hyperbolic praise, by means of hyperbolic similes and comprehensive temporal and personal attributions, transfers the action from the addressee's internal, individual moral level to the external level of social identity, thereby creating a new identity. The magnification of skills and renowned personalities, through magnificent role-modeling, introduces the addressee into a shared human value system and reproduces the boundaries of collective identity.

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Textual Criticism of Persian Literature

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 07 October 2026

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