Characterization

Characterization Have you ever gotten to know a character so well that you were a little sad when the story was over? The way a writer reveals the character is called characterization.

Things to Know about Characterization: Characterization- the process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character. There are two types of characterization Direct characterization- Indirect characterization- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_GVgbykf8A

The two types of characterization are direct characterization and indirect characterization. If a writer tells you what the personality of a character is like, the method is called direct characterization If a writer prefers to show you the personality of the character, the method is called indirect characterization

Characterization: Direct Characterization Direct characterization tells the audience what the personality of the character is. Example: “The patient boy and quiet girl were both well mannered and did not disobey their mother.” Explanation: The author is directly telling the audience the personality of these two children. The boy is “patient” and the girl is “quiet”. Read the following passage. Which words directly show you Amaya’s qualities? When Amaya brought home a pet rabbit, her mother did not object. She knew Amaya was a caring, responsible girl who would take excellent care of the animal.

Characterization: Direct Characterization Dr. Chang was the best dentist in the practice. He had a charming smile, a gentle manner, and a warm personality. He made a trip to the dentist a pleasant experience—despite the discomfort. What words give you direct information about Dr. Chang’s character?

Characterization: Indirect Characterization When writers use indirect characterization, they show their characters in action, giving readers the chance to decide for themselves what a character is like. We will use the acronym S.T.E.A.L. to help us with analyzing a character’s personality when the author has used indirect characterization.

STEAL Speech Thoughts Effect on others toward the character Actions INDIRECT CHARACTERIZATION Speech What does the character say? How does the character speak? Thoughts What is revealed through the character’s private thoughts and feelings? Effect on others toward the character What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to the character? Actions What does the character do? How does the character behave? Looks What does the character look like? How does the character dress?

The character’s personality is revealed through his or her own speech. Example: He grabbed the man and yelled, “give me your money!” (demanding)

The character’s personality is revealed through private thoughts. Examples: Allison knew she should have given money to the homeless man, and felt very bad about it. (sensitive, guilty) Kim felt impatient with her sister for being late. (upset, impatient)

Effect on Others The writer reveals what other characters in the story say or think about the character. Examples: “The new girl in school seems very nice,” said Jessica happily. (nice, happy) “Nathan is awesome at soccer,” remarked the fan, “he made two goals during the game.” (hardworking, athletic)

Actions- The character’s personality is revealed by their actions and behaviors. The young girl was clinging to her mother throughout the storm. (nervous and unsure) Joe reacted quickly and jumped into the river to save his little brother. (smart and brave)

The writer describes how the character looks, dresses, and appears. Examples: He was a smiling as he left the house and drove towards the party. (by his appearance, we can see that he is happy) The woman was wearing a beautiful blue gown with a pearl necklace. (wealthy) His eyes were as cold as stone. (sad, upset) The man seated in the parked limousine had short hair, piercing eyes, and a serious gaze. He was dressed neatly in a starched white shirt and striped tie.

Show What You Know https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blygA-gGEbw Character Speech Thoughts Effects on other characters Actions Looks 1) Joker 2) Elsa 3) Jack Sparrow 4) Marge & Jerry 5) Stewie

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