Characterization

Characterization 0 The way in which authors convey information about the characters.

Direct Characterization 0 The reader or audience is directly told what the character’s personality is 0 Is important for a character’s motivation– wants, fears, love, and hate 0 Examples 0 Karen is bright, energetic, and helpful. 0 Joe was motivated by money. He had no use for love or family.

Indirect Characterization Speech: What does the character say and how does he/she speak? Thought: What is shown about the character through his/her private thoughts and feelings? Effect: What effect does the character have on other people? How do they feel or react to him/her? Actions: What does the character do? How does the character act in different situations? Looks: What does the character’s appearance say about his/her personality?

Indirect Characterization 0 I jumped up, knocking over my chair, and had reached the door when Mama called, “Pick up that chair, sit down again, and excuse me.” --”The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst