Direct and Indirect Characterization

Definitions Characterization is the process by which the author reveals the personality of the characters. There are two types of characterization: direct and indirect.

Direct Characterization Direct characterization is when the author TELLS the audience what the personality of the character is. Examples: “Bill was short and fat, and his bald spot was widening with every passing year.” “‘Jane is a cruel person,’ she said.’” “I looked in the mirror and saw how dark the circles under my green eyes had become.”

Indirect Characterization Indirect characterization is when the author SHOWS things that reveal the personality of the character. There are FIVE different methods of indirect characterization: speech, thoughts, effect on other characters, actions, and looks. (STEAL)

Indirect Characterization Speech- What does the character say? How does the character speak? Thoughts- What is revealed through the character’s thoughts and feelings? Effect 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?

Indirect Characterization Looks- What does the character look like? How does the character dress? Actions- What does the character do? How does the character behave?

Indirect Characterization Examples “Bill sighed as he looked at the offer of a gym membership. He really should join. But just thinking about it made beads of sweat collect at the top of his bald spot.” “As Jane walked past the box labeled ‘Free Puppies,’ she furtively glanced around her, then gave the box a swift kick.” “I yawned, trying to keep my eyes open in the meeting. I reached for my coffee cup and was disappointed to realize it was empty.”

Practice What examples of indirect and/or direct characterization do you see from the example? “I reach her just as she is about to mount the steps. With one sweep of my arm, I push her behind me. ‘I volunteer!’ I gasp. ‘I volunteer as tribute!’” Collins, The Hunger Games, p. 22

Practice What examples of indirect and/or direct characterization do you see from the example? “He’s good-looking, he’s strong enough to handle the work in the mines, and he can hunt. You can tell by the way the girls whisper about him when he walks by in school that they want him” Collins, The Hunger Games, p. 10

The Difference Remember, the difference between direct characterization and indirect characterization is TELLING v. SHOWING! Indirect characterizations are like clues about the characters. There is no mystery with direct characterization because the author tells us the information we need to know.