What element does hyperbole often heighten in a narrative?

Hyperbole is a literary device that involves exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. In a narrative, hyperbole often intensifies emotional impact by emphasizing feelings or reactions to events, situations, or characters. When writers use hyperbole, they draw attention to strong emotions or extreme circumstances, making them more vivid and engaging for the reader. For instance, describing a character as being "so hungry they could eat a horse" conveys not just their physical hunger but amplifies the urgency and intensity of that emotion. This potent exaggeration can evoke empathy and create a more memorable experience for the reader, effectively enhancing the emotional resonance of the narrative.