Character Motivations

A character’s motivation is the reason he or she takes a particular action. The reason may be....

• internal

• external

• internal and external

• none

Internal motivations include...

• emotions

• setting

• situation

• other factors

External motivations include...

• emotions

• setting

• situation

• none of the above

How do playwrights reveal character motivation?

• dialogue

• actions

• revealing details in stage directions

• none of the above

How can we identify characters' motivations in a drama?

• circle important vocabulary words

• cite textual evidence

• make inferences

• identify the theme

What is Ruben’s motivation for selling his comic book collection?

Is Ruben’s motivation internal or external or a mix of both? Explain your answer.

What inference can you make about Joycelyn’s motivation for selling her violin?

Is Joycelyn’s motivation internal or external or a mix of both? Explain your answer.

Paulo wanted to play baseball, so he decided to try out for his school’s team. What is his motivation for his actions?

• ambition

• jealousy

• revenge

• obligation