Direct vs. Indirect Characterization

Front

What is direct characterization?

Back

Direct characterization is how the author (or a narrator) describes a character explicitly.

Front

What is indirect characterization?

Back

Indirect characterization is when the author reveals a character's personality through their actions, speech, thoughts, effects on others, and appearance.

Front

Give an example of direct characterization.

Back

An example of direct characterization is: 'Maria was a kind and generous person who always helped her friends.'

Front

Give an example of indirect characterization.

Back

An example of indirect characterization is: 'When the teacher asked for volunteers, Sarah hesitated, biting her lip, which showed her shyness.'

Front

What can you infer about a character who rolls their eyes and walks away when spoken to?

Back

You can infer that the character is rude and thinks they are better than everyone else.

Front

What does it mean if a character's actions annoy another character?

Back

It suggests that the character's behavior is bothersome and may indicate their personality traits.

Front

What type of indirect characterization is shown when a character's thoughts are revealed?

Back

This is an example of 'Thoughts' as a type of indirect characterization.

Front

How can a character's speech reveal their personality?

Back

A character's speech can reveal their personality by showing their attitude, emotions, and how they view others.

Front

What is the effect of a character on others in a story?

Back

The effect of a character on others can indicate their personality traits and how they are perceived by those around them.

Front

What type of indirect characterization is shown when a character's appearance is described?

Back

This is an example of 'Looks' as a type of indirect characterization.