Literature &
Characterization
Review: Elements of a Short Story
Character Theme Setting
A person, animal, or being who The central idea or underlying The specific time and place in
takes part in the action of the belief conveyed in a short story. which the narrative's events
story. occur.
Conflict Plot
A struggle between two people, things, or competing A series of sequential events that relate directly to
actions. the central conflict.
Drama vs. Short Story
Short Story Drama
Written prose narratives designed to be read Written specifically for live performance on
individually, usually in a single sitting. They stage. Dramas rely heavily on dialogue,
typically rely heavily on descriptive language to interpersonal interactions, stage directions, set
establish the setting and internal monologue to design, props, and lighting to develop
reveal character thoughts. characters and build the physical environment.
Character & Characterization
Who is your favorite character from a story? Why?
Types of Characters in Drama
Protagonist Antagonist Minor Characters
The main character. The whole Causes conflict for the Not the primary focus, but their
story revolves around their protagonist. This can be another actions help drive the story
decisions, which are affected by person, society, nature, fate, or forward by aiding or interfering
internal or external conflict. even an internal struggle. with the central conflict.
What is Characterization?
The Act of Creating Beyond the Physical
Characterization is the fundamental act of It includes descriptions of physical attributes,
creating and describing characters in literature. but more importantly, a character's personality.
It breathes life into the narrative, giving depth to The unique way characters act, think, and speak
the people populating the story. defines who they are.
Methods of Characterization Which is the direct and
the indirect character?
1. From The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Katniss volunteers to take Prim’s place in
the Hunger Games.
2. From Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
by J.K. Rowling
Harry is described as small, thin, and
wearing broken glasses.
Methods of Characterization
• Direct Characterization: Also known as explicit
characterization. The author directly tells the audience
what a character is like.
• From To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Atticus Finch is often directly presented as calm, fair, and principled.
• Indirect Characterization: Also known as implicit
characterization. The author shows the audience what
kind of person a character is through thoughts, words,
and deeds. Requires inference.
• From To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Atticus calmly defends Tom Robinson even though many people in Maycomb
disagree with him.
Questions?
Quiz: Direct or Indirect Characterization
Direction: Identify whether each statement shows Direct Characterization or Indirect
Characterization. Write D for Direct and I for Indirect.
1. The narrator said that Lucas was a selfish and impatient boy.
2. Maria shared her umbrella with a classmate who was walking in the rain.
3. The old man was kind, gentle, and wise.
4. Carla crossed her arms, rolled her eyes, and refused to listen to her teacher.
5. The author described Daniel as a brave young man who never gave up easily.
6. Ana stayed after class to help her friend understand the lesson.
7. The girl was shy and quiet around strangers.
8. Mark shouted at the waiter because his food arrived late.
9. The teacher was strict but fair to all her students.
10. Even though he was tired, Ben carried his grandmother’s heavy bags all the way home.