1. Literary Elements: Characterization and Point of View Ms. Machado English 9 Honors

2. A Character is… A person in fiction portrayed through action, speech, description and commentary

3. Character Traits Character trait - the quality of mind of habitual mode of behavior ◦ Ex. Lazy or ambitious, serene or anxious, aggressive or fearful, thoughtful or inconsiderate Character traits are illustrated BY a character’s response to situation and circumstance.

4. Round vs. Flat Characters Round Character- a character with many traits, one who is complex, whose personality has a lot of “layers”. Flat character– a character with only one or two key personality traits

5. Stock Characters Stock Character – a character who fits a preconceived notion about a “type” ◦ Ex. Villain, hero, damsel in distress, mad scientist, nagging mother, controlling father, etc.

6. Dynamic vs. Static Characters Dynamic – undergoes a change or alteration through the course of a story  Can be seen through: an action, an epiphany or an acceptance of a new change/condition Static – does not change or grow throughout the story  Is often used to highlight the development of round characters

7. Protagonist vs. Antagonist Protagonist – the main character in a story Antagonist- the character or force that conflicts with the protagonist  Usually evil  Can be a force of nature

8. Character Example: Shrek SHREK: An Ogre Round character? Or Flat? Dynamic character? Or Static? Stock Character? Protagonist or Antagonist? Fiona: Princess-turned-Ogre Round? Or Flat? Dynamic? Or Static? Stock Character? Protagonist or Antagonist?

9. Character Example: Shrek Prince Charming: Hottie Round or Flat? Dynamic or Static? Stock? Protagonist or Antagonist?

10. Characterization Characterization -- The way that the author develops the characters ◦ The information the author gives the reader about the character  Some ways in which character is revealed:  Physical appearance  Thoughts, feelings, dreams and words of character  Character’s actions  What others say about and react to character ◦ Characters are convincing if they are consistent, motivated and life-like

11. Direct vs. Indirect Characterization ◦ Direct characterization – tells readers directly what a character is like  Ex. Narrator’s comments ◦ Indirect characterization – shows readers what a character is like– requires readers to make an inference  Physical description; appearance  Speech/Dialogue  Private thoughts/feelings  Motives & Actions  Speech, action, thoughts, feelings of other characters  Effects on other characters

12. Character Analysis Consider: ◦ How is character revealed at the beginning of the novel/story? ◦ How does the character change throughout the course of the novel/story? ◦ How is the character revealed at the end of the novel/story? ◦ What do the character’s experiences teach us?