1. Characterization

2. Definitions Characterization is the process by which the author reveals the personality of the characters and things that make the character unique. There are two types of characterization: direct and indirect.

3. Types of characterization Direct Characterization: concrete information that is given to you Indirect Characterization: based on observations, you make an inference Example Excerpt from story: “Cinderella’s step mother was mean.” Excerpt from story: “Cinderella’s step mother locked her in a closet so that Cinderella could not try on the slipper.” What do we learn? The step mother is mean. What is the difference between direct and indirect characterization? We directly told this information.We draw our own conclusions about this character from information given.

4. Additional Notes: Indirect Characterization There are FIVE different methods of indirect characterization: 1) SPEECH (dialogue) of the character 2) ACTIONS of the character 3) THOUGHTS & FEELINGS of the character 4) through the thoughts, feelings, and interactions with OTHER characters 5) PHYSICAL looks of character

5. Indirect characterizations are like clues about the characters. There is no mystery with direct characterization because the author gives us the information we need to know! More Notes: Indirect Characterization

6. Direct or Indirect? The patient boy and quiet girl were both at the game. Direct The author is telling us that the boy is patient and the girl is quiet.

7. Direct or Indirect? “Hey, we can have lots of fun at camp this summer! I love being outside!” Indirect Speech- What does the character say? How does the character speak? This shows us the character is upbeat and happy.

8. Direct or Indirect? He was bored. He was tired of waiting in line. Direct The reader doesn’t have to guess (or infer) how the character feels. The narrator tells the reader how the character feels.

9. Direct or Indirect? I wish it would stop raining. I am tired of sitting inside! Indirect Thoughts- What is revealed through the character’s thoughts and feelings? This shows us the character is not happy about the situation.

10. Direct or Indirect? I am beautiful. Direct The narrator tells the reader that he is beautiful. Indirect What do we learn about the character through this internal thought? He is vain? Confident? Stuck up?

11. Direct or Indirect? The boy glared at his sister as she ate his dessert. Indirect Effect on Others- What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to the character? This shows us that the character is upset about his sister’s behavior and inability to think of others.

12. Direct or Indirect? The girl rode the lawn mower through the house and into the garage. Indirect Actions- What does the character do? How does the character behave? This shows us the girl is not concerned with rules or safety.

13. Direct or Indirect? The little girl left the game with slumped shoulders and a frown on her face. Indirect Looks- What does the character look like? How does the character dress? This shows us the little girl is not enjoying herself and is upset.