The Crucible
by Arthur Miller

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The Crucible: Personification 1 key example

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

Key Examples in The Crucible

Act 2
Explanation and Analysis—Vengeance Walks:

In this passage, Miller uses personification and metaphor to convey the chaotic atmosphere in witch-trial-obsessed Salem. Proctor refuses to give Elizabeth up to the investigators who arrive at their house with a warrant for her arrest:

PROCTOR: I'll tell you what's walking Salem—vengeance is walking Salem. We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law! This warrant's vengeance! I'll not give my wife to vengeance!