CHARACTERIZATION



CHARACTERIZATION

For many writers finding inspiration to create a character is rarely difficult. However, these same writers face several obstacles when attempting to introduce that character to an audience. The pressure is on to develop a character that is both relatable and believable.

Using direct and indirect characterization, a writer can successfully realize characters that capture the reader’s attention and gain this same reader’s trust. We both enter the fast lane when a story’s conflict takes-off—shouldn’t we, as readers, expect to find ourselves in the company of a worthy passenger?

The answer: Absolutely!

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What is “characterization”?

~The author’s description and development of the characters in his/her literary work

~The inextricably connection to the narrative’s plot

~The creation of characters who “come to life” through visualizations of physical attributes, actions, conversations, and reaction/relationship with other characters

~The combination of “telling” and “showing” the reader who a particular character truly is

~The accomplishment of retaining a sense of believability

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The Two Types of Characterization:

~When differentiating between direct and indirect characterization, look to the techniques of “telling” vs. “showing.”

~Direct characterization will directly “tell” the reader what the character is like.

*For example: “Esmeralda was the most serious student in school. She longed for fun but was afraid of disappointing her aunt if her perfect grade point should ever drop, even a tenth of a point.”

~Indirect characterization will “show” the character’s traits using five approaches.

*Appearance: “Esmeralda usually wore her brown hair pulled tightly back in a ponytail. But for today, she twisted the dark strands into a low bun that curled exactly at the tip of her gray turtleneck.

*Dialogue: “Hey, Esmeralda, what to come with us to the movies tonight?” Amber asked.

“Oh, no.” Esmeralda lowered her head and sighed. “My aunt would never allow it. She said I need to work on my research paper all weekend.”

“But, Esmeralda, the research paper isn’t due until next quarter. You have over two months.” Amber nudged against Esmeralda.

“I can’t, okay.” Esmeralda quickened her pace and ducked into the alleyway on towards home.

*Private thoughts: Why can’t I be like the other kids? Esmeralda pressed her nose against the window watching the trick-or-treaters skip by. Why can’t Aunt Melanie just lighten up?

Be sure to only incorporate the character’s thoughts if they are the narrator!

*Actions (just as in real life, we learn a great deal about people from their observing their actions): “That afternoon, Leo raced into the alleyway before he lost Esmeralda again. Like he seemed to do every time he had missed to tell her something important at lunch. “Hey,” he said when he finally caught up. When she didn’t respond, Leo reached forward and tapped her on the shoulder. She flinched and took off running, but not before Leo saw the blush spreading across her cheeks.

*Effects (most writers will reveal their characters through what they actually do and the effects those actions have on other characters): “Leo couldn’t even chase after Esmeralda. His feet seemed to cement themselves to the ground. They simply refused to pick-up the chase. Instead, he stood in the alleyway pondering why Esmeralda could have been so upset by his friendly gesture.”

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