Characterization

So what is it? Definition: the process by which the author reveals what a character is like. Revealed through: direct characterization indirect characterization

Direct Characterization Tells the audience what a character is like. Example: “The patient boy and quiet girl were both well-mannered and did not disobey their mother.” Explanation: The author is directly telling the audience the personality of these two children. The boy is “patient” and the girl is “quiet.”

Indirect Characterization Shows things that reveal what the character is like. There are 5 different methods (STEAL) of indirect characterization: Speech: What does the character say? How does (s)he speak? Thoughts: What is revealed through the character’s private thoughts and feelings? Effect: What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to him/her? Actions: What does the character do? How does (s)he behave? Looks: What does (s)he look like? How does (s)he dress?

Your turn! With your table partner, decide on a short story, fairy tale, movie, etc. that you both know very well. Next, choose 1 character from it. Then, use the STEAL method to determine indirect characterization.

Indirect Characterization TIP: Use indirect characterization to analyze visual media: Film: Look at how the character dresses and moves. Note the facial expressions when the director moves in for a close-up shot. Example? Drama: Pay attention to the way that the characters reveal their thoughts during a speech.