Characterization and Types of Characters

Characters vs. Characterization Character – a person (or animal or natural force presented as a person) in a work of literature Characterization – the way an author presents a character (directly or indirectly)

Protagonist The Protagonist - the main character in a work of literature; the protagonist is central to the action of a story and moves against the antagonist.

Antagonist a character or force opposing the protagonist; not necessarily a villain or “bad guy”

Foil a type of antagonist that offsets the protagonist or other characters by comparison or by stopping a plan

Confidante someone in whom the central character confides, thus revealing the main character’s personality, thoughts, and intentions. The confidante does not need to be a person.

Stock/Stereotype a familiar character type requiring little or no imagination on the part of the author

Archetype a prototype, model, or “perfect example”

These are the common types of characters we see in literature. Round characters Flat characters Dynamic characters Static characters

Round Characters a character presented in-depth from many angles; may be complex and many-sided Round characters have various characteristics or traits.

Flat Character a character about whom we know very little Readers see one side of a flat character. Flat characters are usually minor characters and reveal one or two traits. Flat characters may be used as a contrast to a major character.

Dynamic Character a character who changes due to events in the story Scrooge changes from a tight-fisted, greedy unhappy man to one who was generous and loved life. Gru changes from a villain set on destroying the world to a loving father.

Static Character Static characters are one dimensional—readers see only one side. Static characters stay the same and do not develop. Readers learn little about this character.