Character

Characterization

The methods an author uses to create and reveal a character’s personality.

Characterization can be direct, telling readers what a character is like, or indirect, revealing personality through actions, speech, thoughts, and others’ reactions. Writers use it to make characters believable and to drive plot and theme. Skillful characterization lets readers infer depth rather than being told everything.

Example

Faulkner characterizes Emily indirectly through the town’s memories, her stubborn refusals, and the decaying house, building a portrait of pride and isolation.

A Rose for Emily · William Faulkner

See it in action

Analyses on StoryBites that use characterization:

The Most Dangerous GameRichard ConnellEdithaW.D. HowellsThe Rich BoyF. Scott FitzgeraldA Good Man Is Hard to FindFlannery O'ConnorEveryday UseAlice WalkerA&PJohn UpdikeThe Secret Life of Walter MittyJames ThurberThe DarlingAnton ChekhovA Retrieved ReformationO. HenryRegretKate Chopin

Related terms

ProtagonistThe central character whose choices and struggles drive the story.FoilA character whose contrast with another highlights that other character’s qualities.Point of ViewThe perspective from which a story is told.

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