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Paradox
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
Part 1, Chapter 2: A Merry Christmas
Part 1, Chapter 7: Amy’s Valley of Humiliation
Explanation and Analysis—The Last Hope:
Alcott personifies emotions to dramatize scenes. For example, when Mr. Davis finds the limes in Amy's desk in Chapter 7, the other schoolchildren heave sighs of disappointment, and hope is personified as it flees from their hearts.
Unlock with LitCharts A+There was a simultaneous sigh, which created quite a little gust, as the last hope fled, and the treat was ravished from their longing lips.
Related Themes:
Part 1, Chapter 8: Jo Meets Apollyon
Explanation and Analysis—Curiosity:
Alcott often personifies emotions when describing the quarrels between Amy and Jo. In the following passage from Chapter 8, the narrator describes how Beth prevents another explosive interaction between the two sisters:
Unlock with LitCharts A+When they got home, they found Amy reading in the parlor. She assumed an injured air as they came in, never lifted her eyes from her book, or asked a single question. Perhaps curiosity might have conquered resentment, if Beth had not been there to inquire and receive a glowing description of the play. On going up to put away her best hat, Jo's first look was toward the bureau, for in their last quarrel Amy had soothed her feelings by turning Jo's top drawer upside down on the floor. Everything was in its place, however, and after a hasty glance into her various closets, bags, and boxes, Jo decided that Amy had forgiven and forgotten her wrongs. There Jo was mistaken, for next day she made a discovery which produced a tempest.
Related Themes:
Part 2, Chapter 41: Learning to Forget
Explanation and Analysis—Personification of Nature:
In Chapter 2, Alcott personifies sunshine:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The rooms were very still while the pages were softly turned, and the winter sunshine crept in to touch the bright heads and serious faces with a Christmas greeting.
Related Themes:
