Characterization

1. Characterization How do authors create characters?

2. There are many methods that authors use to create characters. DIRECT characterization: the author tells us directly what a character is like. thoughts and feelings what other characters say description methods of characterization relationships actions and dialogue background INDIRECT characterization: The author gives hints about a character.

3. DIRECT characterization: the author tells us directly what a character is like. Erica stood a head above the other girls in the class, her shock of black curls bouncing on her regal shoulders. description Erica wondered if the boys ignored her because of her height. She felt awkward around them. thoughts and feelings what other characters say “Did you see Erica in the school class picture? She was in the middle of the boys’ row in the back! She’s so tall!”

4. InDIRECT characterization: the author only suggests what a character is like. Erica bounced the ball confidently down the court and jumped, easily tipping the ball into the basket. “That oughta shut you up!” she shouted to the snickering girls on the sidelines. actions and dialogue The author suggests she is both athletic and a little defensive. Through her difficult previous experience, the author suggestsshe is hopeful for change. At her previous school, Erica had been relentlessly teased about her height. She hoped this new school would give her a chance. background Sitting anxiously in the car in the parking lot, Erica’s mother couldn’t wait to hear how her day had gone. Since Erica’s father had left them just weeks earlier, both hoped for a new beginning. She has a supportive mother, but her father has left: the author suggestsshe has struggled, but has support. relationships

5. Different ways of categorizing characters protagonist Main character or hero of the story. Faces challenges and overcomes obstacles to achieve a goal. antagonist The force opposing the protagonist. Is usually – though occasionally is not – a person.

6. Different ways of describing characters Round character Complex character with many characteristics. Flat character Simple character with only one or two characteristics; is occasionally a stereotype (the ‘dumb blond’, the ‘wise old woman’).

7. Different ways of defining characters dynamic A character who goes through a change from the beginning to the end of the story; he/she learns an important life lesson. static A character that does not change from the beginning to the end of the story.