ASCRIBING HUMAN MOODS TO NATURE, AS IN A PLAYFUL-BREEZE ILLUSTRATES

• A. humour
• B. pathetic fallacy ✓
• C. symbolism
• D. zeugma

The answer to the question is: B. pathetic fallacy

Pathetic fallacy is a literary device in which human emotions and characteristics are attributed to inanimate objects or nature. This term was coined by the Victorian poet John Ruskin in his work “Modern Painters” (1843-1860). The use of pathetic fallacy allows writers to create a mood or atmosphere within their works by attributing human emotions to elements of nature.

Pathetic fallacy is often used to evoke specific emotions or to reflect the inner feelings of characters. For example, when a character is feeling joyful, the sun might be shining brightly, and birds might be singing. Conversely, if a character is experiencing sadness, the weather might be described as gloomy and overcast. This literary technique can be found in various forms of literature, including poetry, prose, and drama.

In summary, the attribution of human emotions to elements of nature, as in a playful breeze, exemplifies the concept of pathetic fallacy.