Characterization in Literature

Humorous Angry Compassionate

VengefulSad

Happy

LazyEnergetic

How do characters become real ?

Atticus Finch

Direct Characterization

• The author or narrator gives the reader information about the character

Indirect Characterization

• A character’s actions• A character’s interactions• A character’s appearance• A character’s words• A character’s thoughts• A character’s feelings

Indirect Characterization• Another character’s thoughts, words,

or feelings about the character.• Another character’s thoughts, words,

or feelings about the character.

Indirect Characterization

• The reader does the work!

• The reader must examine the actions, words, and thoughts of the character.

Characters

• Protagonist – the main character – the focus of the reader’s attention

• Antagonist – a person or force in conflict with the protagonist

Characters

• Round – some background – displays multifaceted personality

• Flat – little or no personal history – one or two traits only

Characters

• Dynamic – changes in the course of the story – often dramatically

• Static – remains the same throughout the story

Motivation

• Why does the character do what he/she does?

• What reasons are there for his/her actions?