Character presentation

1. Direct presentation The author tells the reader crucial information about the protagonist. This information is usually given through exposition (facts) or using another character.

2. Indirect presentation The author shows the reader the character by what the: Author says Character says Character does Other characters say about him/her

Often authors will intertwine both direct an indirect presentation to create a realistic and lifelike character(s).

Convincing characterization There are three qualities that an author uses for characterization to be convincing to the reader.

Consistent in behaviour -The character behaves in a realistic manner. - Will not change behaviour abruptly or without good reason.

2. Motivated -What motivates the character to act the way he or she does. -without motivation the character becomes unbelievable.

3. Plausible -The character is very “lifelike” and “believable” to the reader.

Character foil Two characters set in opposition whose strengths and weaknesses are enlarged by one another. Any character or thing that, by strong contrast, underscores or enhances the distinctive characteristics of another.

Examples: From the show “Seinfeld”: George and Jerry, or Kramer and Jerry “I’m a MAC, and I’m a PC” From “Glee”: Mr. Schuster and Sue Sylvester