1. Elements of Characterization
What makes a good character?

2. Characterization
The main character involved in the main conflict and its resolution is called the protagonist.
The person opposing the protagonist is called the antagonist.
Characters come in multiple forms:
flat
round
dynamic
static

3. Direct VS Indirect
Characters can be characterized in two different ways:
Direct Characterization – information about a character that is directly stated
EX: “Billy is short” therefore we know that Billy is a short person.
Indirect Characterization – information about a character that we have to infer from speech, actions, or private thoughts.
EX: “Sally started to cry” we can infer that something upsetting has happened to Sally.

4. Flat Characterization
Embodies a Stereotype
One sided – Without depth
Helps move the plot more quickly, because the audience immediately understands the character.
Example: Bruce

5. Round Characterization
Many sides and opinions.
Unpredictable behavior.
Fully developed personality.
Antagonists are usually a round characterization.
Example: Like The Green Goblin (Norman Osborn)

6. Dynamic Characterization
A character who experiences an essential change in personality or attitude.
Protagonists are almost always dynamic.
Example: Stitch, from Lilo and Stitch

7. Static Characterization
A character who does not change or develop beyond the way in which she or he is first presented.
Example: Scar from
The Lion King

8. Point of View
Point of View – how a text is being considered; the position from which something or someone is observed.
There are three types of Point of View
First: I, Me, and My
Second: You, We, and Us
Third: He, She, They, and Them

9. Point of View Cont…
First Person POV – someone telling you his or her story: “I went to the store”
Second Person POV – being told how you should do something: “you should go to the store.”
Third Person POV – is done from an outside narration: “the boy went to the store.”