​Characterization

Characterization in literature is the process authors use to develop characters and create images of the characters for the audience. There are two different approaches to characterization, including direct characterization and indirect characterization.​

​Direct Characterization

With direct characterization, the author tells us what they want us to know about the character.​

​Indirect Characterization

With indirect characterization, the author shows us things about the character to help us have an understanding of the character's personality and effect on other characters.​

​Five Methods of Characterization

• Physical Description

• ​Actions/Attitudes/Behaviors

• ​Inner Thoughts

• ​Reactions

• ​Speech

Physical description​

The character's physical appearance is described. For example, characters might be described as tall, thin, fat, pretty, etc. We might be told the color of hair or something about the clothing of the character. How the character dresses might reveal something about the character. Does the character wear old, dirty clothing, or stylish, expensive clothing?​

​Action/attitude/behavior

​What the character does tells us a lot about him/her, as well as how the character behaves and his or her attitude. Is the character a good person or a bad person? Is the character helpful to others or selfish?

​Inner thoughts

What the character thinks reveals things about the character. We discover things about their personalities and feelings, which sometimes helps us understand the character's actions.​

​Reactions

Effect on others or what the other characters say and feel about this character. We learn about the relationships among the characters. How does the character make the other characters feel? Do they feel scared, happy, or confused? This helps the reader have a better understanding of all the characters.​

​Speech

What the character says provides a great deal of insight for the reader. The character might speak in a shy, quiet manner or in a nervous manner. The character might speak intelligently or in a rude manner.​