What effect does pathetic fallacy typically have in literature?

Pathetic fallacy plays a significant role in literature by imbuing the natural environment or inanimate objects with human emotions, which serves to reflect or enhance the emotional state of characters or the overall mood of the narrative. This connection between emotions and the surrounding setting can deepen a reader's emotional engagement with the text, as it allows them to feel more intimately connected to the characters' experiences and struggles. For instance, a storm might symbolize a character's turmoil, thereby intensifying the reader's understanding and empathy toward that character's emotional journey.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary function of pathetic fallacy. While it might contribute to realism in a certain context, its main purpose is not to enhance realism but rather to evoke specific emotional responses. Additionally, while some literary devices can create confusion about the plot, pathetic fallacy generally clarifies and deepens the emotional landscape rather than complicating it. Lastly, while it can influence dialogue indirectly through the setting, it does not inherently add complexity to dialogue itself. Its primary contribution lies in the emotional resonance it fosters between the narrative elements and the reader's experience.