Generalization is used in literature to explain something complicated with a simple statement. ... When it is not the moment to refer to details, a generalization can give the readers an idea of the situation at hand.
The purpose of personification in the above excerpt is to give human characteristic to death which is considered to be a non human. Writers usually use personification in their write ups in order to bring an inanimate objects to life so that their actions and natures will be better understood.
Engraving, etching, legend, wording, dedication etc.
