Methods Of Characterization
Writers use various methods to help you comprehend a character. The characters traits help developing characters so pay close attention to them.
A writer may characterize a character directly or indirectly. This is the same concept as "show don't tell." Direct character is when the author straightforwardly tells you about the character. Indirect characterization is the more adept method of characterization. YOu can use: a character's appearance, speech, thoughts, actions towards other characters as well as reactions.
Now, read this excerpt from The Great Gatsby.
"He had changed since his New Haven years. Now he was a sturdy straw-haired man of thirty with a rather hard mouth and a supercilious manner. Two shining arrogant eyes had established dominance over his face and gave him the appearance of always leaning aggressively forward. Not even the effeminate swank of his riding clothes could hide the enormous power of that body — he seemed to fill those glistening boots until he strained the top lacing, and you could see a great pack of muscle shifting when his shoulder moved under his thin coat. It was a body capable of enormous leverage — a cruel body.
His speaking voice, a gruff husky tenor, added to the impression of fractiousness he conveyed. There was a touch of paternal contempt in it, even toward people he liked — and there were men at New Haven who had hated his guts."
His speaking voice, a gruff husky tenor, added to the impression of fractiousness he conveyed. There was a touch of paternal contempt in it, even toward people he liked — and there were men at New Haven who had hated his guts."
This excerpt demonstrates methods of characterization. In the first paragraph, you can see uses of indirect characterization tied in with direct characterization. The author describes the character at first by his physical appearance and attributes and then gives a direct explanation of the character. This characterization gives you a better perspective on the character.
The man has a sense of swagger as he walks in. His words make him seem arrogant by the way he addresses the students. He has a fierce attitude and demanding tone.
"i used this skill while developing my characters throughout my numerous narrative writing prompts."