What does the term "Apostrophe" refer to in literary context?

The term "Apostrophe" in a literary context refers to the technique of addressing someone or something that is not physically present, often as if it were capable of responding. This rhetorical device allows the speaker to convey emotions, thoughts, or sentiments directly to an absent figure, an idea, or an object, enhancing the emotional impact and depth of the expression. For instance, in the line "O Death, where is thy sting?" the speaker is directly addressing Death, personifying it, and engaging in a dialogue that emphasizes their feelings about mortality.

This technique is frequently used in poetry and dramatic works to evoke feelings of nostalgia, longing, or despair, making the text more relatable and poignant. The other options do not capture the essence of what an apostrophe represents in literature—addressing the absent or non-human entity is its defining characteristic.