Character Types Characterization Flat vs Round Characters Round

Character Types & Characterization

Flat vs. Round Characters • Round Characters- multidimensional; possess more than one motivation; display many qualities, including strengths and weaknesses • Flat Characters- one-dimensional; have only one motivation; display only one quality or trait

The Hamburglar: Flat or Round?

Katniss Everdeen: Flat or Round?

Dynamic vs. Static Characters • Dynamic Characters- Undergo change during the course of play; grow in terms of improvement or self-realization • Static Characters- Remain the same throughout the play, resist or are unable to adjust to changing circumstances

Jack Merridew: Dynamic or Static?

Puck: Dynamic or Static?

Nick Bottom: Dynamic or Static?

Complex vs. Limited Characters Complex Characters: Round & Dynamic Limited Characters: Flat & Static

Characterization • Characterization- the dialogue and actions that reveal a character’s personality • Direct Characterization- when a writer directly states a character’s traits. In drama, it is usually the chorus, narrator, or another character that makes such statements • Example- RAPHAEL: [Aside] “I hate to say it, but your just can’t trust Mauricio. ” • Indirect Characterization- a writer shows what a character is like in any of the following ways: • • Descriptions of a character’s physical appearance The character’s own words (dialogue) The character’s actions or behavior Other character’s reactions to the character

Direct or Indirect Characterization? • Patrice is the jealous type. • Gordon shoved the boulder off the cliff, which fell on top of his girlfriend’s car. • Franklin had long scraggly hair down to the back of his knees. • I wouldn’t let Nadine babysit. She is just not responsible enough.