Defining C

Notes

•Defining Characterization Characterization is the process by which a writer reveals a character's personality. It is shown through direct and indirect methods. •Direct Characterization This method explicitly states a character’s traits. For example: “The patient boy and quiet girl were both well mannered and did not disobey their mother.” Here, the author directly describes the children as “patient” and “quiet.” •Indirect Characterization This method reveals personality through actions, speech, thoughts, effects on others, and looks. There are five techniques, remembered by the mnemonic STEAL: •Speech What does the character say? How do they speak? •Thoughts What are their private thoughts and feelings? •Effect on Others How do other characters react to or feel about them? •Actions What does the character do? How do they behave? •Looks How does the character appear? How do they dress? TIP #1: Use the STEAL mnemonic to remember the five types of indirect characterization. TIP #2: Apply indirect characterization when analyzing visual media: In film, observe how characters dress, move, and facial expressions during close-ups. In drama, note h...