What literary device is being used in these lines :
"Earth felt the wound; and Nature from her seat,
Sighing, through all her works, gave signs of woe."

Question

Accepted Answer

Personification is the correct literary device being used in the lines: "Earth felt the wound; and Nature from her seat, Sighing, through all her works, gave signs of woe."

Here's why:

*   **Why Personification is Correct:** Personification is the attribution of human qualities (emotions, actions, characteristics) to inanimate objects or abstract concepts. In these lines, "Earth" is described as "feeling the wound," and "Nature" is described as "sighing" and giving "signs of woe." Feeling a wound, sighing, and expressing woe are all human actions and emotions. By giving these qualities to the Earth and Nature, the poet is using personification to create a more vivid and emotionally resonant image.

*   **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:**

*   **Euphemism:** Euphemism is the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt. The given lines do not attempt to soften or disguise anything unpleasant; they directly express grief and suffering.

*   **Allusion:** Allusion is an indirect or passing reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. The lines do not contain any specific references to external sources or events.

*   **Hyperbole:** Hyperbole is the use of exaggeration for emphasis or effect. While the lines express strong emotion, they are not necessarily an over-the-top exaggeration of reality. The focus is on giving human-like reactions to the Earth and Nature, rather than simply exaggerating the extent of the damage or sorrow.