Characterization Essential Question How do I identify the

Characterization Essential Question: How do I identify the traits of a character in a literary text?

Characterization How an author describes and develops a character and his or her personality. How an author makes characters come alive, or seem real and/or believable.

Two types of characterization: 1. Direct (telling) 2. Indirect (showing)

Direct characterization Author’s direct statement - telling the reader exactly what the character’s personality is like. Examples: Ms. Cook is professional. Mr. Giansante is friendly. The guy who created Family Guy is a nerd.

Indirect Characterization Readers learn about the character(s)/the character’s personality indirectly from the author showing, not telling the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. What they say (dialogue) What they do (behavior & actions) What they think (internal monologue) What they have and wear (appearance) Where they are The people with whom they associate What others say about them Naming

Naming: Of Mice and Men Lennie Small Crooks Slim Candy Curley

Naming Dolores Umbridge Umbrage: noun 1. offense; annoyance; displeasure: to feel umbrage at a social snub; to give umbrage to someone; to take umbrage at someone's rudeness. 2. the slightest indication or feeling of suspicion, doubt, or hostility.

Naming: Romeo and Juliet Benvolio Buen, bien, ben = good Mercutio Mercury – used in thermometers, liquid metal “Crazy” or “Uncontrollable”