Characterization Characterization

Characterization is the process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character.

Direct Characterization When the writer states the character’s traits

Indirect characterization The writer reveals a character’s traits through their: Speech What does the character say? How does the character speak? Thoughts What is revealed through the character’s private thought and feelings? Effects on others How do other characters react to them? Actions What does the character do? How do they behave? Looks What does the character look like? How do they dress?

Main character the character(s) on which the literary work focuses

Major character any character that plays a significant role in the action

Minor character a character that does not have a significant role in the action

Round character a character who is complex—you see both the good and bad sides of them—like a human.

Flat character a character who is one dimensional; only one aspect of their personality is revealed.

Dynamic character A character who changes during the course of the work

Static character a character that does not change during the work

Protagonist the main character that faces the problem and actively attempts to solve it

the character or force which actively creates the problem Antagonist the character or force which actively creates the problem

Stereotype/Stock Character a character which represents a group or standard

Foil someone who serves as a contrast to another character

Character Types Main Character Major Character Minor Character Protagonist Antagonist Round Character Flat Character Dynamic Character Static Character Stock Character Foil As you fill in the character chart, you should apply labels to each character, indicating what types of characters they are.