In indirect characterization, rather than explicitly describe a character's qualities, an author shows the character as he or she moves through the world, allowing the reader to infer the character's qualities from his or her behavior. Direct characterization is also sometimes called 'explicit characterization.' Indirect Characterization Here the second speaker is directly characterizing Sam as being selfish and cruel. He acts nice when you first meet him, but then he'll ask you for money and never return it, and eat all your food without any offering anything in return, and I once saw him throw a rock at a puppy.

For instance, imagine the following dialogue between two characters: Such direct description may come from a narrator, from another character, or through self-description by the character in question.

In direct characterization, the author directly describes a character's qualities. Most authors can and do use both direct and indirect methods of characterization to develop their characters. It's important to note that these two methods are not mutually exclusive. Here's how to pronounce characterization: kar-ack-ter-ih- zey-shun Direct and Indirect CharacterizationĪuthors can develop characterization in two ways: directly and indirectly. Characterization became particularly important in the 19th century, with the rise of realist novels that sought to accurately portray people.It wasn't until the 15th century that characters, and therefore characterization, became more crucial parts of narratives.

Early studies of literature, such as those by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, saw plot as more important than character.Some additional key details about characterization: It may also occur indirectly, in which the character's qualities are revealed by his or her actions, thoughts, or dialogue. Characterization may occur through direct description, in which the character's qualities are described by a narrator, another character, or by the character him or herself. What is characterization? Here’s a quick and simple definition:Ĭharacterization is the representation of the traits, motives, and psychology of a character in a narrative.

Flat character definition