1. Literary Elements Part Two:
Characterization + Setting

2. Setting

3. Setting Definition: Describes where and when the story takes place
When = time, where = place
Setting helps build the background of the story and creates images in the mind.
Details can describe:
Time of day, time of year, or time in history
Scenery
Weather
Location

4. Using the Five Senses
A good setting helps the reader visualize the places in the story.
A good author includes descriptions of the setting using the five senses…
SIGHT
SMELL
TASTE
FEEL
SOUND

5. Take a Look…Which is better?
The castle was beside the water.
OR…
The waves crashed loudly against the shoreline. The fog lifted lightly and the medieval castle came into view. It was a beautiful sight! The fog brushed my face, and I could smell the smoke from the fire in the distance and taste the sea salt on my lips.

6. Your Turn… On the next slide, there is a picture of a setting.
In your own words, write a detailed description of the setting in your picture. Include many adjectives and don’t forget to include descriptions for each of the five senses: see, hear, feel, smell, taste

8. Characterization

9. Every story needs characters
People
Animals
Creatures

10. The protagonist is the “good guy”
Usually, the protagonist is the main character of the story.

11. The antagonist is the “bad guy” or force

12. Characterization
Characterization is the way in which an author shows the personality of a character
Characterization is a technique writers use to make characters “come to life.”
An author can tell you about a character’s personality and traits in two ways:
Directly
Indirectly

13. Character Traits Character Traits are descriptive adjectives that tell us specific qualities of a character
Honest
Light-hearted
Leader
Expert
Brave
Conceited
Mischievous
Demanding
Thoughtful
Keen
Happy
Disagreeable
Simple
Fancy
Plain
Excited
Studious
Inventive
Creative
Thrilling
Independent
Intelligent
Compassionate
Gentle
Proud
Wild
Messy
Neat
Joyful
Strong
Bright
Courageous
Serious
Funny
Humorous
Sad
Poor
Rich
Tall
Dark
Light
Handsome
Pretty
Ugly
Selfish
Unselfish
Self-confident
Respectful
Considerate
Imaginative
Busy
Patriotic
Fun-loving
Popular
Successful
Responsible
Lazy
Dreamer
Helpful
Simple-minded
Humble
Friendly
Short
Adventurous
Hard-working
Timid
Shy
Bold
Daring
Dainty
Pitiful
Cooperative
Lovable
Prim
Proper
Ambitious
Able
Quiet
Curious
Reserved
Pleasing
Bossy
Witty
Fighter
Tireless
Energetic
Cheerful
Smart
Impulsive
Loyal

14. Direct Characterization
Direct characterization is obvious and spelled out. The author tells you exactly what they want you to know about the character’s personality. You don’t have to guess.
Example: “Freddy was very competitive.”
What character trait does the author tell us Freddy has?

15. Indirect Characterization
Indirect characterization tells us something about the character, but it is not as obvious. Instead of just telling us what traits the character has, the author shows us.
The author can reveal character traits by the character’s speech, thought, effect on others, actions, or looks.
You have to be a bit of a detective to find out the character’s traits.
Example: “Two days before the game, Freddy gathered his teammates and laid out his game plan. Then, he looked at them and said, “We are going to win this game! No excuses!”
What character trait does the author show us that Freddy has?

16. Character Motivation
Character Motivation is the driving force behind why the character does what he/she does. (Reasons for character’s actions)
What does the main character want more than anything else (main goal)?
What do secondary characters want more than anything else (main goal)?
What potential conflicts or struggles might exist between the characters?