Identifying Characters in Literature

Objectives Learn to recognize types of characters and the role they play while reading a given text – character types exist besides the protagonist and antagonist Apply this knowledge to enhance the effectiveness of your writing

Types of Characters in Literature Flat Character Embodies one or two qualities, ideas, or traits that can be readily described in a brief summary They are not psychologically complex characters and therefore are readily accessible to readers Some flat characters are recognized as stock characters – they embody stereotypes such as the "dumb blonde" or the "mean stepfather" They become types rather than individuals

Types of Characters in Literature Round Character Complex than flat characters, and often display the inconsistencies and internal conflicts found in most real people They are more fully developed, and therefore are harder to summarize Dynamic Character Undergoes some kind of change because of the action in the plot

Types of Characters in Literature Parallel Character Brings out the theme in a larger way; this character appears responsible for advancing the development of the plot Static Character Does not change throughout the work, and the reader’s knowledge of that character does not grow

Types of Characters in Literature The Catalyst Character Someone who starts trouble, either intentionally or accidentally. The catalyst seems to bring about bad luck, or a turn for the worse for another character. Foil Character A character that is used to enhance another character through contrast

A FOIL is a person who is paired with another character to develop the other’s traits and personality by CONTRAST.

Drastically Different In fiction, a FOIL is a character who contrasts with another character (usually the protagonist) in order to highlight particular qualities of the other character. A FOIL usually differs drastically.

How is a FOIL in math and a FOIL in Literature the same? What is the FIRST thing you first notice about the two characters? What OUTER characteristic is most noticeable about the two characters? What INNER characteristic is most noticeable about the two characters? What is the LAST thing that you notice about the two characters? FOIL in Math First Outer Inner Last

Who is the Foil? Usually the foil contrasts the protagonist; however, this is not always the case. In the classic good-guy vs bad-guy scenario, both the hero and the villain can each be considered the other’s foil, in that each acts to show how the other behaves in certain situations. Sidekicks often serve as foils. They can be something that the hero or villain himself is not. For example, if the hero or villain is hotheaded, the sidekick could be calm and practical.

Tom Boy-Girly Girl Brains-Brawn Cowardly sidekick Evil Twin Foolish Character-wise character

Who is the FOIL in Twilight? Edward Jacob Who is the FOIL in Twilight?

Who is the FOIL to Cinderella? Step Sisters Who is the FOIL to Cinderella?

Who is the FOIL in the Hunger Games? Katniss Peeta Who is the FOIL in the Hunger Games?

Antigone Who are their FOILS? Antigone Creon

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