Characterization

A Definition: The act of creating and developing a character.

Methods of Characterization: Direct Characterization: The author directly states a character's traits; there is no need to guess.

Indirect Characterization: The author doesn't tell the audience exactly what to think, instead we have infer or "guess" based on the clues left by the author through: 1. The character's thoughts, feelings, actions, and/or dialogue (what they say) 2. The authors description-how the writer uses language to describe their appearance may also reveal traits 3. The thoughts, feelings, actions, and/or dialogue of other characters

In Action: From __To Kill a Mockingbird__ by Harper Lee Miss Stephanie Crawford is "a neighborhood scold" (50), Boo Radley is "a malevolent phantom" (43), and Mrs. Dubose is "plain hell" (14).
 * Direct Characterization:**

From __Twilight__ by Stephanie Meyer Even though Bella puts up a brave front, I infer (or assume) that she has low self-esteem and lacks confidence. Based on her thoughts as she is preparing for her first day at Forks High School. "Facing my pallid reflection in the mirror, I was forced to admit that I was lying to myself. It wasn't just physically that I'd never fit in. And if I couldn't find a niche in a school with three thousand people, what were my chances here." (10)
 * Indirect Characterization:**