PERSONIFICATION

Etymology

The term 'personification' originates from the Latin word 'persona,' meaning 'mask' or 'character,' and 'facere,' meaning 'to make.'

Definition

Personification is the attribution of personal qualities, human nature, or character to animals, inanimate objects, or abstract notions, especially as a rhetorical figure.

Historical Context

Personification has been used throughout history in literature, art, and rhetoric to create vivid and emotional descriptions by giving non-human things human traits.

Cultural Significance

Personification plays a significant role in various cultures, enhancing storytelling, poetry, and artistic expression by making abstract concepts more relatable and engaging.

Related Concepts

Personification is closely related to other literary devices such as metaphor, simile, and allegory, as it involves attributing human qualities to non-human entities.

See Also

• Metaphor
• Simile
• Allegory