Characterization English II, Unit One

Characterization What IS characterization? Let’s discuss. Characterization is what an author uses to show what his/her characters are like. This helps us to get a good picture of the character in our head.

Types of Characterization Authors may choose to reveal their characters’ personalities in one of two ways: Indirect Characterization Direct Characterization

Direct Characterization Author prefers to tell you up front what a character’s personality is like. Ex.: “Kris is a mean-spirited man.” Ex.: “Lukas is a kindhearted boy who loves everyone.” Ex.: “Farrah is wishy-washy, and does not commit to her obligations.”

Indirect Characterization Author likes to give you clues about a character’s personality based on a number of “facets”: Speech (Dialogue) Thoughts (Inner-dialogue) Effects on Others Actions Looks (Appearance)

Speech A character’s dialogue can give insight into their personality. Ex.: “I don’t think you have anything to be sorry for,” David said softly. “Your concerns are more than justified. I—I’ve been under a bit of strain myself, and I didn’t mean to come across as domineering. The S.T.A.R.S are—that is, they mean a lot to me, and I want us…I want for them to be whole again...” (Perry 67). What does the dialogue tell us about David?

Thoughts What a character thinks can also give you insight. Ex.: Veronica Mars - Inner Dialogue What does Veronica’s inner dialogue (thoughts) tell you about her personality? Ex.: Watchmen – Inner Dialogue What does Rorschach’s inner dialogue (thoughts) tell you about his personality?

Effects on Others How characters treat others in a story reveals a great deal about their personality. Ex.: Frollo’s Discovery – Clip What effect does Judge Frollo have on Quasimodo? What does it tell you about his personality? Ex.: ”You are not leaving this tower, EVER!” – Clip What effect does Mother Gothel have on her ward, Rapunzel?

Actions A character’s actions reveal a lot about a character’s personality, also. Ex.: “Long Live the King!” – Clip What do Scar’s actions tell us about his personality? What do Mufasa’s actions tell us about his personality? Ex.: “Anything else?” – Clip What do Kylo Ren’s actions tell us about his personality?

Looks (Appearance) A character’s appearance can give readers or viewers a glimpse into a character’s personality. Ex.: Kylo Ren’s First Appearance – Clip What does Kylo Ren’s appearance tell you about his personality?

Character Name: _____________________ STEAL Chart Character Name: _____________________ Speech Thoughts Effects on Others Actions Looks (Appearance) “Quote from the story” (Lastname pg #). Explain in a complete sentence or more what this quote tells you about the character.