Which literary device gives human characteristics to non-human entities?

The correct answer is personification, which is a literary device that attributes human characteristics, emotions, or actions to non-human entities, such as animals, inanimate objects, or abstract concepts. This technique allows readers to relate more closely to the subject matter by making it more relatable and vivid. For instance, saying "the wind whispered through the trees" gives the wind a human action, enhancing the imagery and emotional connection for the reader.

In contrast, other literary devices serve different purposes. Metaphor creates a direct comparison between two unrelated things without using "like" or "as," while simile does use those words for comparison. Alliteration involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely placed words. None of these devices specifically assign human traits to non-human things, which is the unique function of personification.