Final answer:
Personification is a literary device where human qualities and characteristics are attributed to non-human entities, such as saying 'trees' branches reached towards the sun like arms.' It's an aspect of figurative language that enriches literature and makes it more relatable and vivid for the reader. The correct option for its definition is giving human qualities to animals or objects for the sake of imagery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Personification
Personification is a literary device where an author attributes human qualities and characteristics to non-human entities. This technique is used to create vivid imagery and help readers connect on an emotional level with objects or concepts that are otherwise lifeless or abstract.
For example, in the phrase 'the trees' branches reached towards the sun like arms,' the trees are given a human characteristic of reaching out with 'arms' which is an example of personification. It differs slightly from anthropomorphism, which involves giving human behaviors or attributes to animals or other non-human entities, such as in William Wordsworth's poem where the daffodils are described as 'dancing.'
Other types of figurative language include metaphor and simile. A metaphor makes a direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as,' such as Emily Dickinson's line 'Hope is the thing with feathers.' Conversely, a simile makes a comparison using 'like' or 'as,' shown in the example 'like a red, red rose' from Robert Burns' poem.
The use of personification enriches language and can be found in various forms of literature, including poetry and prose. Laura Kasischke's use of personification in 'Hostess' paints a picture of irises speaking as if they had mouths and whispered secrets, giving life and relatability to the flowers.
In summary, personification is a key tool in the writer's arsenal to enliven writing and engage the reader's imagination and emotions. It is an essential aspect of figurative language that contributes to the richness and depth of literary works and enhances the reading experience.
To answer the initial question, personification is the act of giving a human quality to something that is not human. Therefore, the correct option is: Personification | giving human qualities to animals or objects for the sake of imagery.