Direct vs Indirect Characterization

What is indirect characterization?

• a. When the author explicitly states a character's traits

• b. When the author uses actions and dialogue to reveal a character's traits

• c. Both a and b

• d. None of the above

In which of the following ways can an author use indirect characterization to reveal a character's personality?

• Through the character's thoughts and feelings

• Through the character's actions

• Through the character's dialogue

• All of the above

When the author plainly tells the reader what the character is like.

• Indirect Characterization

• Direct Characterization

The author may describe what the character looks like or what the character’s personality is like.

• Direct Characterization

• Indirect Characterization

Example - “The patient boy and quiet girl were both well mannered and did not disobey their mother.”

• Direct Characterization

• Indirect Characterization

The process by which the writer shows the character's personality through speech and actions.

• Direct Characterization

• Indirect Characterization

When the reader must infer from the character’s speech and actions what the character is like.

• Indirect Characterization

• Direct Characterization

Dee thinks that she is better than everyone else.

• Direct Characterization

• Indirect Characterization

How can you analyze Indirect Characterization?

• Appearance

• Direct description of personality

• Actions & How other characters in the story react to the character

• Statements

• Thoughts & Feelings

Direct Characterization __________ the reader details about a character.

• "shows"

• "tells"