Understanding Personification and Its Analogous Terms in English Literature
Understanding Personification and Its Analogous Terms in English Literature
Personification and anthropomorphism are two powerful literary devices used in English literature to attribute human qualities to non-human entities such as animals, plants, objects, and even abstract ideas. These techniques help bring inanimate objects and abstract concepts to life, thus enhancing imagery and enriching the narrative. However, there are other terms that are closely related to these concepts. In this article, we will explore these terms, their usage, and examples to provide clarity to anyone who might be confused about the terminology.
Personification
Personification refers to the literary device where non-human beings or inanimate objects are given human characteristics, emotions, and actions. This technique is often employed to create vivid imagery and to make abstract ideas more relatable.
For example, consider the phrase 'the wind howled through the night'. Here, the wind, a non-human entity, is given the human characteristic of 'howling'. This not only conveys the intensity of the wind but also paints a more vivid picture for the reader.
Anthropomorphism
Anthropomorphism is closely related to personification but slightly different. It involves attributing human qualities not just to objects and plants, but often to animals, making them seem more like humans in behavior and appearance. Anthropomorphism often involves personifying animals by giving them human-like attributes or responsibilities.
A well-known example is the character of Benjamin from the book 'Charlotte's Web'. Benjamin the donkey is depicted as a thinking, talking character with human-like qualities such as owning his own business and being a member of a labor union. This is a clear case of anthropomorphism in action.
Other Related Terms
There are several other terms in literature that are related to personification and anthropomorphism. Here are a few examples:
Animal Metaphor
When an animal is used as a metaphor to describe human characteristics, it is known as an animal metaphor. For instance, referring to someone as a 'wolf in sheep's clothing' is an animal metaphor that suggests a person is cunning and devious.
Hypermorphism
Hypermorphism is a term coined by Walter J. Ong in his book 'The Presence of the Word' (1967). It is used to describe an exaggerated form of anthropomorphism where non-human entities are given not just human characteristics, but also human roles, behaviors, and relationships. William Blake’s 'The Tyger' is a classic example of hypermorphism, where the tiger is given human-like qualities and concerns.
Conclusion
Ambiguous terms like 'personification' and 'anthropomorphism' are essential tools in the language of literature. Understanding these concepts and their interplay with other related terms can greatly enhance an appreciation of literary works and the depth with which they are crafted. By recognizing these devices, readers can more effectively engage with the text and uncover the underlying meanings and emotions expressed by the author.