Characterization

Characterization is the process by which the writer reveals the personality of a

character. Characterization is revealed through direct characterization and indirect

characterization.

DIRECT CHARACTERIZATION: The author tells the audience what the personality of
the character is explicitly.

Example 1: Michael is a kind, well-mannered boy that gets along with everyone.
Explanation: The author is directly telling the audience the personality of
Michael. He is kind and well-mannered.

Example 2: Alex is friendly and talkative.

Explanation: The author directly states that Alex is friendly and talkative.
Underline words in the following sentences that indicate direct characterization:

Pam is the most responsible student in the school. She is so organized and intelligent.

Maya is friendly and talkative. She will talk to anyone she meets.

INDIRECT CHARACTERIZATION: The author tells the audience what the character
does and says and shows how others react to the character. You must use those clues
to figure out what the character is like. There are five different methods of indirect
characterization:

What does the character say? How does the

Speech character speak?

Thoughts What is revealed through the character’s

private thoughts and feelings?
What is revealed through the character’s effect
Effect on others on other people? How do other characters feel
or behave in reaction to the character?

Actions What does the character do? How does the character behave?
Looks What does the character look like? How does
the character dress?

Example 1: When Joey broke his leg last year, Lance stopped by his house everyday after
to school to bring him his homework and keep him company.
Explanation: Lance is a good friend because he brought Joey his homework and kept him
company everyday.

Example 2: While quickly trying to get to her next class, Katie dropped all of her books,
folders, and pencils on the floor of the hallway. Luke was the only student to stop and
help her pick up all of her materials.
Explanation: Luke is kind because he helped Katie pick up all of her things.