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Pathos
Definition of Personification
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down on the wedding guests, indifferent... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the sentence, "The rain poured down... read full definition
Personification is a type of figurative language in which non-human things are described as having human attributes, as in the... read full definition
Chapter 2: Matthew Cuthbert Is Surprised
Explanation and Analysis—Nature:
Anne's frequent personification of trees and other natural features reveals her respect for nature and desire for companionship. In Chapter 2, Anne says that the trees are talking in their sleep:
The yard was quite dark as they turned into it and the poplar leaves were rustling silkily all round it.
“Listen to the trees talking in their sleep,” she whispered, as he lifted her to the ground. “What nice dreams they must have!”
Related Themes:
Chapter 38: The Bend in the Road
Explanation and Analysis—Anne's Duty:
At the end of the novel, the narrator personifies Anne's duty as a "friend," which shows how comfortable she is with her decision to stay at Green Gables. When Matthew dies, and Marilla discovers her failing eyesight, Anne must make a choice: accept a scholarship to Redmond, or remain at Green Gables. She decides to stay because she feels obligated to help keep up the homestead. But her sense of duty never embitters her; in fact, she views it as a welcome challenge.
In Chapter 38, the narrator personifies Anne's sense of duty as a friend:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Anne felt as if she had lived years since then, but before she went to bed there was a smile on her lips and peace in her heart. She had looked her duty courageously in the face and found it a friend—as duty ever is when we meet it frankly.
Related Themes:
