1. Unit 3: Characterization
Chapters 9-12

2. Chapter 9: Creating a Character
Internal traits:
Mental- intelligent, clever, dull, average?
Spiritual- ideals, ethics, beliefs?
Emotional- confident, nervous, confused, happy?
How does he/she respond to others?
What are his/her likes and dislikes?
What is the character’s motivation? (this helps develop the conflict within the plot of the story)

3. Chapter 9: Creating a Character
External traits:
Posture- what does his/her posture say about him/her?
Movement & gestures- do they suggest age, health, strength, weakness, attitude?
Mannerism- what habits does he/she have?
Voice- is there a difference in dialect or vocal mannerisms?
Mode of dress- is he/she neat, casual, dressy, clean, dirty?
Avoid stereotypes when creating a character!

4. Chapter 10: Character Development
Realistic play vs. nonrealistic
Realistic:
imitates real life, recognizable characters
Representational style- actors are unaware of the audience
Example: A Doll’s House
Nonrealistic:
Exaggerated situations, fantastical
Presentational style- actors are aware of their audience
Example: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

5. Chapter 10: Character Development
Plot Structure:
Conflict = a problem or struggle
Rising Action = events that contribute to the conflict
Turning Point/climax = where the action turns
Falling Action = events that occur after the TP/C
Resolution = complications are worked out
Mood: emotional texture of the play (made apparent during the rising action)

6. Chapter 10: Character Development
How to develop/get into your character:
Concentrate on your internal/external traits
Know where your character fits into the script
Understand/invent your character’s background, history
Determine your motivation
Determine whose side your character is on
Understand what your stage directions say about you
Get to know your reputation amongst the other characters
Evaluate how your character changes throughout the play

7. Chapter 11: Dramatic Roles
Greek Tragedy: ultimate sacrifice to acquire something
Protagonist- main character
Antagonist- villain/opposing force
Catharsis- the sense of calm following tragedy/suffering
Shakespearean Tragedy: great internal struggle
Tragic flaw- the character’s ultimate weakness
Social Drama: everyday struggles of regular people
Melodrama: cliffhanger plays focusing on society

8. Chapter 12: Comic Roles Low Comedy: physical, vulgar, outlandish
Examples: burlesque, farce
Middlebrow Comedy: plot-based, sentimental
Examples: romantic comedy, situational comedy
High Comedy: comedies that appeal to the intelligence of the audience; make fun of high society
Examples: satire, comedy of manners