1. Characterization

2. Literary Devices Literary devices are tools that writers use to create a work of writing. Characterization is a literary device or element.

3. Characterization Characterization in literature is the way that an author introduces, develops, and describes a character. The character may be described directly by the author or indirectly through the actions, thoughts, and speech of the character.

4. Methods of Characterization Physical DescriptionHow the character looks Action/Attitude/ Behavior How the character behaves Inner ThoughtsWhat the character thinks and feels ReactionsHow other characters react to one another SpeechWhat the character says and how the character speaks

5. Types of Characterization

6. Direct or Explicit Characterization This kind of characterization takes a direct approach to building a character. With direct characterization, the author, narrator, or even the protagonist (main character) tells the reader about the character. – Example: Georgie was cunning and greedy.

7. Indirect or implicit Characterization This kind of characterization takes a subtle approach to introducing a character. The audience must draw conclusions about the character by observing the character’s thought process, behavior, speech, manner of speaking, appearance, and responses to and from other characters. – Example: On a crowded subway, Georgie slipped her hand into the man’s pocket and stole his wallet.

8. With indirect characterization, the reader learns about a character through….. The character’s speech “I’m nervous, but I’ll go for it anyway,” Mike said. The character’s thoughts As Mike approached the edge of the diving board, he trembled at the memory of last year’s accident. The character’s actions Mike took a deep breath and jumped into the water. The reaction of other characters Mike’s mom was in awe of her son’s strength. “He’s so brave,” she thought.