Literary Terms and Characterization

Front

Characterization

Back

The process by which the writer reveals the personality of a character.

Front

Direct Characterization

Back

When the author directly or explicitly states a character's traits.

Front

Indirect Characterization

Back

When the author reveals a character's traits through actions, speech, thoughts, or interactions with other characters.

Front

Flat Character

Back

A character who embodies only one or two traits and who lacks complexity.

Front

Round Character

Back

A character who has more dimensions to their personality; they are complex and undergo development.

Front

Static Character

Back

A character who does not change throughout the story.

Front

Dynamic Character

Back

A character who undergoes an important inner change throughout the story.

Front

Plot

Back

The sequence of events in a story.

Front

Exposition

Back

The beginning of the story where characters and setting are introduced.

Front

Inciting Incident

Back

An event that sets the central conflict into motion.