Question

what literary device is being used?

In majesty, and the complaining brooks
That make the meadows green; and, poured round all,
Old Ocean’s gray and melancholy waste,—
Are but the solemn decorations all
Of the great tomb of man. The golden sun,
The planets, all the infinite host of heaven,

Answer 1

Answer:

Personification

Personification: Personification is to give human attributes to inanimate objects. He has personified nature throughout the poem by giving it human qualities and voice to the emotions, beauty, and thoughts.

Explanation:

Thanatopsis" is a poem by the American poet William Cullen Bryant. Meaning 'a consideration of death', the word is derived from the Greek 'thanatos' (death) and 'opsis' (view, sight).

Answer 2

Colour imagery is being used. 'Green', 'gray' and 'golden' are all examples of this.