1. Character
The following literary terms will help us discuss and understand characters, their motivations, and why they become what they become.

2. Characters Protagonist Antagonist “bad guy” but usually is
“The main character”
The person in the “person vs. ______” of the central conflict
Not always a “ good guy” but usually is
Antagonist
Opposes the protagonist in the central conflict
Not always a
“bad guy” but usually is

3. Character Major Characters Minor Characters Major Characters
Appears throughout the novel
Is involved in the work’s central/main conflict
Minor Characters
Enter the novel for a specific reason
May be in conflict with a major character to reveal/show something about the major character
May exist in “the shadow” of a major character

4. Character Static Character Dynamic character
Does not change much in the course of the story
Examples: Cinderella’s Stepmother
Billy Weaver
Changes as a result of the conflict.
Examples: Cinderella
Roger (Thank You Ma’am)

5. Characterization Direct Indirect
When the author or narrator directly states the traits of a character.
“He was tall, skinny, and full of spit and vinegar.”
“Her weak smile betrayed the suspicion and mistrust she felt for the newcomers.”
Indirect
When the author reveals character traits through the words, thoughts, actions of that character and/or other characters.
“The girls chuckled as the new student arrived in class. Quietly, one could be heard saying, “H-he-hel- hello, M-m-ms. Waters.”

6. Character Motivation
Any force (reason) that drives the character to behave in a certain way
Example: love, fear, jealousy, commands, experiences, etc.
Think-Pair-Share: Think of your favorite movie or book character. What is that character motivated by?

7. Moral Dilemma
Character is faced with a difficult decision/situation that tests his/her integrity and ability to “do the right thing”
**Revealed by characters’ motivations and conflicts
**The RED BUTTON** example

8. Moral Dilemma Example 2:

9. Character Behavior
A character’s personal choices, treatment of others, and actions.
Reveals personality, motivation, and morals