Anthropomorphism

Definition

Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities, particularly animals or inanimate objects. This literary device helps create relatable characters or scenarios, making it easier for readers to connect with the narrative. In fables and parables, anthropomorphism is frequently used to convey moral lessons through characters that embody human-like qualities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anthropomorphism allows authors to engage readers by creating characters that reflect human behavior, making stories more relatable and impactful.
2. In many fables, such as Aesop's, animals are given human-like qualities to teach lessons about virtues like honesty, kindness, and wisdom.
3. The use of anthropomorphism can serve to simplify complex moral dilemmas by presenting them through the actions of easily understandable characters.
4. Anthropomorphism not only applies to literature but can also be found in various forms of media including cartoons, films, and advertising where animals and objects exhibit human behaviors.
5. Through anthropomorphism, stories can challenge societal norms and provoke thought on human nature by reflecting our traits through the lens of non-human characters.

Review Questions

• How does anthropomorphism enhance the moral teachings found in fables?
  • Anthropomorphism enhances moral teachings in fables by allowing readers to relate to animal characters that display human traits. This connection makes the moral lessons more digestible and impactful as readers can see themselves reflected in the actions and decisions of these characters. For instance, when a cunning fox outsmarts other animals, it teaches lessons about cleverness and deception in a way that is engaging and memorable.
• Compare and contrast anthropomorphism with personification in their use within literature.
  • While both anthropomorphism and personification attribute human characteristics to non-human entities, anthropomorphism specifically gives these traits to animals or objects that act like humans. In contrast, personification is broader and includes giving human qualities to abstract concepts, like love or justice. In fables, anthropomorphism is used more frequently because it allows for straightforward storytelling through relatable characters that embody specific virtues or vices.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of anthropomorphism in communicating complex social issues through fables and parables.
  • Anthropomorphism effectively communicates complex social issues by simplifying them through relatable characters. By presenting challenging themes like greed or injustice through animal protagonists, authors can provoke thought and discussion without overwhelming readers with heavy subject matter. This approach not only makes the issues accessible but also encourages introspection as readers reflect on their own behaviors and societal norms through the actions of these anthropomorphized characters.

Related terms

Fable: A short story, often with animals as characters, that conveys a moral lesson.

Allegory:

A narrative in which characters and events symbolize broader concepts or ideas, often conveying a moral or political message.

Personification:

A figure of speech in which human attributes are given to animals, objects, or abstract concepts, closely related to anthropomorphism but often used in a more poetic sense.