What is 'Pathetic Fallacy' and what is its significance in literature?

Pathetic fallacy is a literary device that is used to create mood and atmosphere. It is the use of the weather or other atmospheric devices to reflect the mood and tone of the characters and their situation. It is used to help the reader understand the perspective of the character, and in many cases will be used to create a sense of foreboding.Pathetic fallacy is a literary device that is used to create mood and atmosphere. It is the use of the weather or other atmospheric devices to reflect the mood and tone of the characters and their situation. It is used to help the reader understand the perspective of the character, and in many cases will be used to create a sense of foreboding.

CW
Answered by Charlie W. English tutor

15219 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

'It is a tragedy that the journey is often more fulfilling than the arrival.' With reference to your wider reading, explore the presentation of illusionary love in Rapture and The Great Gatsby.


Faced with a poem, I often feel like I do not understand it and thus cannot enjoy it fully. Are there ways to 'understand' poetry more fully?


How does Emily Dickinson portray the body and soul in 'I'm afraid to own a Body -' (1090)?


How do you write the 'perfect' essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning