Character

Character = a person or animal in a story

Characterization

The methods used by the author to create or reveal the characters in a story.

Direct Characterization

The author simply says what the character is

like.

For example, “Miss Alice was the nicest person

you would ever want to meet.”

Indirect Characterization

The author presents the character’s personality through the character’s words, actions, and thoughts, along with how other characters relate to him/her. You must then draw your own conclusions about the character.

Indirect Characterization

Indirect characterization is the most similar to the way we learn about people in real life.

Methods of Characterizationcreating believable characters…

INDIRECT DIRECT

-physical appearance -the narrator’s direct comments about a character

-speech, thoughts, feelings, or actions of the character

-speech, thought, feelings, actions of other characters

Example of Direct or Indirect Characterization?

(A) James was constantly angry. He looked for trouble wherever he went, and he usually found it.

Description A is an example of direct characterization.

The author comes right out and tells you that James was always angry and that he was looking for a fight

almost constantly.

Example of Direct or Indirect Characterization?

Stanley’s eyes blazed as he surveyed the room. The corners of his mouth pointed in a decidedly southerly direction. Carol moved aside as he stalked past her.

“Look out for Stan,” she whispered to Bart. “He’s in another one of his moods. I’d stay far away if I were you!”

Description B is an example of indirect characterization.

We can tell from his angry eyes, frowning mouth and the way he

walked that he is angry.

We can also see that others are somewhat frightened of him by observing their reactions. Carol moves aside and warns Bart to

avoid Stanley.

Example of Direct or Indirect Characterization?

When she was 17, Linda dropped out of high school and married a 39-year-old painter.

Example of Direct or Indirect Characterization?

Indirect

Linda is independent, headstrong, and reckless. She doesn’t do what people expect.

Which method is more effective in developing the

character? Why do you think

so?

Methods of Characterizationcreating believable characters…

INDIRECT DIRECT

-physical appearance -the narrator’s direct comments about a character

-speech, thoughts, feelings, or actions of the character

-speech, thought, feelings, actions of other characters