Characterization

Definitions

Characterization is the process by which the author reveals the personality of the characters and things that make the character unique.

There are two types of characterization: direct and indirect.

Types of characterization

Direct Characterization:

concrete information that is given to you

Indirect Characterization:

based on observations, you make an inference

ExampleExcerpt from story:“Cinderella’s step mother was mean.”

Excerpt from story:“Cinderella’s step mother locked her in a closet so that Cinderella could not try on the slipper.”

What do we learn? 

The step mother is mean. The step mother is mean.

What is the difference between direct and indirect characterization?

We directly told this information. We draw our own conclusions about this character from information given.

Additional Notes:Indirect Characterization There are FIVE different methods of

indirect characterization: 1) SPEECH (dialogue) of the character2) ACTIONS of the character3) THOUGHTS & FEELINGS of the

character4) through the thoughts, feelings, and

interactions with OTHER characters5) PHYSICAL looks of character

Indirect characterizations are like clues

about the characters. There is no mystery with direct characterization because the author gives us the information we need to know!

More Notes:Indirect Characterization

Direct or Indirect?

The patient boy and quiet girl were both

at the game.

DirectThe author is telling us that the boy is

patient and the girl is quiet.

Direct or Indirect?

“Hey, we can have lots of fun at camp this summer! I love being outside!”

Indirect Speech- What does the character say?

How does the character speak? This shows us the character is upbeat

and happy.

Direct or Indirect?

He was bored. He was tired of waiting in line.

Direct The reader doesn’t have to guess (or

infer) how the character feels. The narrator tells the reader how the

character feels.

Direct or Indirect?

I wish it would stop raining. I am tired of sitting inside!

IndirectThoughts- What is revealed through the

character’s thoughts and feelings?This shows us the character is not

happy about the situation.

Direct or Indirect?

I am beautiful.

DirectThe narrator tells the reader that he is beautiful. IndirectWhat do we learn about the character through this internal thought?He is vain? Confident? Stuck up?

Direct or Indirect?

The boy glared at his sister as she ate his dessert.

IndirectEffect on Others- What is revealed through the

character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to the character?

This shows us that the character is upset about his sister’s behavior and inability to think of others.

Direct or Indirect?

The girl rode the lawn mower through the house and into the garage.

IndirectActions- What does the character do?

How does the character behave?This shows us the girl is not concerned

with rules or safety.

Direct or Indirect?

The little girl left the game with slumped shoulders and a frown on her face.

IndirectLooks- What does the character look

like? How does the character dress? This shows us the little girl is not

enjoying herself and is upset.