Direct and Indirect

Characterization

Characterization• The art of creating characters for a

narrative• This is a way to convey information

about the characters.• Characters may be presented by

means of description, through their actions, speech, or thoughts.

Direct Characterization• Writer makes direct statements about

the character.• The writer can make statements

about the character’s physical descriptions and personality traits.• This is the easiest characterization

between direct and indirect.

Indirect Characterization• Another way for an author to reveal

information about a character. This is the hardest of the two.

• Readers can find info about a character’s personality through the character’s own thoughts, words, and actions.

• Readers can find out a character’s personality through other characters in the story. Readers can identify through the thoughts of the other character and what they say about him/her.

Example• Direct

Characterization

• Mickey has big round, black ears.

• He wears red shorts.

• He has yellow shoes.

Example (cont.)• Indirect Characterization

• Mickey put on a hat in between his big black, round ears

• Minnie commented how she liked how red Mickey’s shorts were.

• He thought about buying a new pair of yellow shoes.

Give Direct and Indirect Characterizations for the Following Character

Identity Direct and Indirect Characterizations.• Bobby pulled on his Pirate’s baseball cap to

conceal his orange-red hair in anticipation for the game top start. He had bright green eyes and a face full of freckles. His father pointed out, “Bobby! You’re so forgetful! Where is your glove?” Bobby suddenly reached down to the floorboard where he hid it from his father to play a joke. His smile was bright and cheerful while he laughed at his success in worrying his father.

Direct Characterizations• Bobby pulled on his Pirate’s baseball cap to

conceal his orange-red hair in anticipation for the game top start. He had bright green eyes and a face full of freckles. His father pointed out, “Bobby! You’re so forgetful! Where is your glove?” Bobby suddenly reached down to the floorboard where he hid it from his father to play a joke. His smile was bright and cheerful while he laughed at his success in worrying his father.

Indirect Characterization• Bobby pulled on his Pirate’s baseball cap to

conceal his orange-red hair in anticipation for the game top start. He had bright green eyes and a face full of freckles. His father pointed out, “Bobby! You’re so forgetful! Where is your glove?” Bobby suddenly reached down to the floorboard where he hid it from his father to play a joke. His smile was bright and cheerful while he laughed at his success in worrying his father.