The Crucible Characterization Character Types Characterization step by

The Crucible Characterization & Character Types

� Characterization- step by step process wherein an author introduces and then describes a character. The character can be described directly by the author or indirectly through the action, thoughts, and speech of the character. � Direct Characterization-when the author flat out tells us what a character is like. Ex. Joe was a fearless teacher who liked to entertain. Once a month, he dressed like a chicken. � Indirect Characterization- when the author shows us what the character is like through the character's actions, thoughts, and speech. Indirect characterization would also include how others react to a character. i. e. What are another characters thoughts, actions, and speech towards the character? Ex. We learn through John's dialogue that he is an extremely blunt, no-nonsense man.

�Round Character- anyone who has a complex personality; he or she is often portrayed as a conflicted and contradictory person �Flat Character- the opposite of a round character; This character has one kind of personality trait or characteristic. There is nothing complex about them.

�Stock character or Archetype- Those types of characters who have become conventional or stereotypical through repeated use in particular types of stories. They are usually instantly recognizable to readers or audience members. i. e. faithful sidekick, the old-wise soul, mad scientist, etc.

�Dynamic Character- a character who changes over time, usually because they resolved a central conflict or faced a major crisis. �Static character- a character that does not change over time; his or her personality does not transform or evolve

�Protagonist- the main character or central person in the story; The protagonist is often faced with a conflict that must be resolved. The protagonist is not always admirable. �Antagonist- this character acts in opposition against the protagonist. The antagonist is an obstacle that the protagonist needs to overcome.