Direct and Indirect Characterization

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What is direct characterization?

Back

Direct characterization is when a writer makes direct statements about a character's traits, personality, or appearance.

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What is indirect characterization?

Back

Indirect characterization is when a writer suggests information about a character through their thoughts, words, actions, and what other characters say about them.

Front

Give an example of direct characterization.

Back

An example of direct characterization is: 'Joshua was smart and intelligent.'

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Give an example of indirect characterization.

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An example of indirect characterization is: 'When he arrived at school each day, he would ask his teachers if they needed him to take the chairs down or make copies.'

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What are character traits?

Back

Character traits are the qualities or characteristics that define a character's personality.

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What are character motives?

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Character motives are the reasons behind a character's actions, such as a desire to be liked or to achieve a goal.

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How can a writer show a character's personality indirectly?

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A writer can show a character's personality indirectly through their actions, dialogue, and how other characters react to them.

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What is the purpose of characterization in a story?

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The purpose of characterization is to create believable characters that readers can connect with and understand.

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What is an example of a character trait?

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An example of a character trait is kindness, bravery, or intelligence.

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What does it mean to analyze a character?

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To analyze a character means to examine their traits, motives, and development throughout the story.