1. Characterization & The Character Study K. Smith English 1 (H) August 28, 2008

2. Objective Students will analyze the character Ged in order to create a character sketch.Students will analyze the character Ged in order to create a character sketch.

3. Characterization The method used by a writer to develop a character. The method includes:The method used by a writer to develop a character. The method includes: (1)Showing the character's appearance (2)Displaying the character's actions (3)Revealing the character's thoughts (4)Letting the character speak (5)Getting the reactions of others

4. 1 st… some Literary Terms to Help: Types of Character Round – A character that shows varied and often contradictory character traits.Round – A character that shows varied and often contradictory character traits. Flat – A character that shows only one character trait.Flat – A character that shows only one character trait. Dynamic – A character that develops and changes in the course of the literary work.Dynamic – A character that develops and changes in the course of the literary work. Static – A character that remains the same from the beginning to the end of the story.Static – A character that remains the same from the beginning to the end of the story.

5. Prewriting When writing a character study, one must keep in mind your subject’s personality. Think about: How can appearance reveal personality?How can appearance reveal personality? How can thoughts reveal personality?How can thoughts reveal personality? How can spoken word reveal personality?How can spoken word reveal personality?

6. Speaking of spoken word… Dialogue – Conversation between two or more characters in a literary work. Dialogue brings characters to life by revealing their personalities and by showing what they are thinking and feeling as they react to other characters. Dialect – A variation of standard language spoken by a group of people, often within a particular region.

7. Understanding your purpose Your goal in writing a character study is to make your readers feel that they know the subject as well as you do. Depending on your audience, you may have other goals as well; for example you may wish to inform, entertain, or persuade your readers.

8. Make a plan The best way to organize a character study is in order of impression. Lead off with your main impression of the character. Then describe scenes or incidents – each in a separate paragraph – that convey that impression.