1. Character Types & Characterization

2. Flat vs. Round Characters
Round Characters- multidimensional; possess more than one motivation; display many qualities, including strengths and weaknesses
Flat Characters- one-dimensional; have only one motivation; display only one quality or trait

3. The Hamburglar: Flat or Round?

4. Katniss Everdeen: Flat or Round?

5. Dynamic vs. Static Characters
Dynamic Characters- Undergo change during the course of play; grow in terms of improvement or self-realization
Static Characters- Remain the same throughout the play, resist or are unable to adjust to changing circumstances

6. Jack Merridew: Dynamic or Static?

7. Puck: Dynamic or Static?

8. Nick Bottom: Dynamic or Static?

9. Complex vs. Limited Characters
Complex Characters: Round & Dynamic Limited Characters: Flat Static

10. Characterization
Characterization- the dialogue and actions that reveal a character’s personality
Direct Characterization- when a writer directly states a character’s traits. In drama, it is usually the chorus, narrator, or another character that makes such statements
Example- RAPHAEL: [Aside] “I hate to say it, but your just can’t trust Mauricio.”
Indirect Characterization- a writer shows what a character is like in any of the following ways:
Descriptions of a character’s physical appearance
The character’s own words (dialogue)
The character’s actions or behavior
Other character’s reactions to the character

11. Direct or Indirect Characterization?
Patrice is the jealous type.
Gordon shoved the boulder off the cliff, which fell on top of his girlfriend’s car.
Franklin had long scraggly hair down to the back of his knees.
I wouldn’t let Nadine babysit. She is just not responsible enough.