Characterization

Direct Characterization tells the audience what the personality of the character is. 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 the personality of a character. There are five different methods of indirect characterization: Speech Thoughts Effect on others by the character. Actions Looks What does the character say? How does the character speak? What is revealed through the character’s private thoughts and feelings? What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to the character? What does the character do? How does the character behave? What does the character look like? How does the character dress?

Homer is depicted as an overweight, balding, middle-aged man. Speech “The sun? That’s the hottest place on Earth!” This is just one of numerous quotes that show that Homer’s character is not very intelligent. Homer Simpson Thoughts Homer often daydreams about eating donuts and drinking beer with the Duff Man. Homer’s character is concerned with pleasing his urges and often makes them a priority. Effect on Others In many episodes, Homer’s family is pulled into one of his crazy schemes. (Homer sells liquor-filled bowling balls during prohibition). This shows Homer’s lack of concern for others. His antics often lead to a mix of excitement, as well as trouble for his accomplices. Looks Homer is depicted as an overweight, balding, middle-aged man. His looks demonstrate that his character is not all too concerned with his appearance and his health is not his top priority. Actions Homer often falls asleep at his job at the nuclear power plant. This shows that Homer’s character is not concerned with safety and can be a slacker.