Characterization Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is direct characterization?

The author tells the audience what a character is like. (correct)

The audience infers character traits from a character's actions.

Characters cannot be described directly.

Only the narrator can provide character information.

Provide an example of direct characterization.

Bill was short and fat, and his bald spot was widening with every passing year.

Provide another example of direct characterization.

'Jane is a cruel person,' she said.

Provide a third example of direct characterization.

I looked in the mirror and saw how dark the circles under my green eyes had become. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of direct characterization from J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series?

Harry had a thin face, knobbly knees, black hair, and bright green eyes. Signup and view all the answers

In the poem, the speaker describes his mistress' eyes as nothing like the ______.

sun Signup and view all the answers

Provide an example of indirect characterization.

As Jane walked past the box labeled 'Free Puppies,' she furtively glanced around her, then gave the box a swift kick. Signup and view all the answers

What is one way to infer character qualities indirectly?

By observing their actions and interactions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a static character?

A character that does not undergo significant inner changes. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Direct Characterization

Defined as the author explicitly stating what a character is like through narration or dialogue.
Example: "Bill was short and fat, and his bald spot was widening with every passing year."
Another example: “’Jane is a cruel person,’ she said.”
Includes character reflections: "I looked in the mirror and saw how dark the circles under my green eyes had become."
Key example from Harry Potter: A detailed description of Harry emphasizes his small stature, clothing, and a distinguishing lightning-shaped scar.

Indirect Characterization

Involves revealing a character's traits through their actions, thoughts, and dialogue rather than direct statements.
Example: "As Jane walked past the box labeled 'Free Puppies,' she furtively glanced around her, then gave the box a swift kick," suggesting cruelty or indifference.
Also found in nuanced descriptions: "Cathy was chewing a piece of meat, chewing with her front teeth," implies something deeper about her character.
Daily life reflecting feelings: "I yawned, trying to keep my eyes open in the meeting," indicating boredom or disinterest.
Empathy illustrated through Atticus Finch's words: “First of all, ... you never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view,” showcasing his compassionate nature.

Static Character

A static character is one that does not undergo significant internal changes throughout the story.
This character remains consistent in personality and understanding, influencing others without recognizing their own impact.
Illustrates a lack of character growth or development by the story’s conclusion.

Description

Explore direct characterization through examples and definitions in this set of flashcards. Understand how authors convey character traits directly to the audience, enhancing your literary analysis skills.