Direct/Indirect Characterization

Front

What is direct characterization?

Back

Direct characterization is when the author explicitly describes a character's traits or qualities.

Front

What is indirect characterization?

Back

Indirect characterization is when the author reveals a character's traits through their actions, thoughts, dialogue, or how other characters perceive them.

Front

Example of direct characterization: 'The girl was so small a gust of wind could knock her over.' What type is this?

Back

Direct characterization.

Front

Luis’s mouth twitched, and his fingernails were all bitten short. What does this suggest about Luis?

Back

Luis is nervous.

Front

What type of characterization is it when the author tells us what a character is like?

Back

Direct characterization.

Front

On his first day, the other classmates in Ms. Smith’s class towered over Tim. What does this imply about Tim?

Back

Tim is short.

Front

Jessie was the kind of girl who would deliver the newspaper every day, no matter what the weather was like. What does this say about Jessie?

Back

Jessie is reliable.

Front

What is the difference between direct and indirect characterization?

Back

Direct characterization tells the audience about the character, while indirect characterization shows the character's traits through actions and dialogue.

Front

How can a character's dialogue serve as indirect characterization?

Back

A character's dialogue can reveal their personality, emotions, and relationships with others.

Front

What is an example of indirect characterization?

Back

A character who helps others in need shows they are kind and compassionate.