Short Stories Characterization

The act of creating and developing a character. There are two types: –Direct Characterization –Indirect Characterization

Direct Characterization Direct Characterization is when the author directly states a character’s traits. Example: Yesterday in “A Visit to Grandmother” direct characterization was used when GL was described as “part con man, part practical joker, and part Don Juan” (p166).

Indirect Characterization Indirect Characterization is used when an author shows a character’s personality through his or her actions, thoughts, feelings, words, and appearance or through another character’s observations and reactions. Example: In “A Visit to Grandmother,” Kelly presents Chig’s observations and memories of his father.

Types of Characters Protagonist Antagonist Dynamic Static Round Flat

Types of Characters Protagonist Antagonist Dynamic Static Round Flat Major Minor

Protagonist The protagonist is the main character in a work of fiction. The protagonist is also who the readers would like to see succeed.

Antagonist The antagonist is the character who opposes the protagonist. This is the character we would like to see defeated!

Dynamic Character A dynamic character is one who is modified by actions and experiences. In other words, these characters learn from their mistakes.

Static Character A static character is a character who changes little, if at all.

Round Character A round character is a complex character who can surprise the reader with his/her actions.

Flat Character A flat character is a character constructed around a single idea or quality.