What does personification refer to in literary terms?

Personification is a literary device where human traits, emotions, or characteristics are attributed to non-human entities, such as animals, objects, or abstract concepts. This technique allows writers to create a more relatable and emotional connection between the reader and the subject being described. By presenting non-human elements with human-like qualities, authors can evoke empathy and deeper understanding, making the writing more engaging.

In contrast to the other options, which describe different literary techniques or concepts—such as imagery, dialogue, and the broad notion of assigning emotions—the chosen answer accurately captures the essence of personification as it encompasses both the assignment of traits and the emotional aspect, thus making it a comprehensive definition of the term in literary contexts.