What does he saw the gilded weathercock swim in moonlight as passed mean-personification?

In the given line, "he saw the gilded weathercock swim in moonlight as he passed," the weathercock is being attributed human-like qualities. Weathercocks are usually stationary objects used to indicate wind direction, but in this description, it's portrayed as swimming in moonlight, which is a characteristic action of living beings. This use of personification breathes life into the inanimate object and adds a touch of enchantment to the scene.