Introducing Character(ization) Concepts Concept Definition Protagonist the main character of a fictional text (does not have to be the hero or good guy of the narrative) Example Antagonist a character who creates conflict for the protagonist (it is possible to have multiple antagonists within a single text) Direct Characterization when the narrator directly tells his/her audience the personality of a character “You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch.” Indirect Characterization when the narrator reveals the personality of a character through one or more of the following: ● Speech ● Thoughts ● Effect on Others ● Actions ● Looks 1. we can tell from the constant scowl on the Grinch’s face that he is unhappy 2. we can tell from the way the Grinch treats Max that he is unsympathetic towards others 3. we can see from the fact that the Grinch steals Christmas that he is bitter and cynical Static Character a character whose personality or disposition or outlook does NOT change over the course of a narrative Dynamic Character a character who DOES exhibit some sort of a significant change (in personality, disposition, or outlook) over the course of a narrative Character Motivation the reason(s) for why a character says or does the things he/she says or does (a character could be motivated by revenge,
shame, greed, guilt, fear, etc.) Practice: Read Marcus Pfister’s The Rainbow Fish, and then use the provided definitions/examples to guide your responses to each of the following questions. http://www.fcrr.org/assessment/SLP/Joann_Handouts/The_Rainbow_Fish_PA.pdf 1. Who is the protagonist of the story? Who is/are the antagonist(s) of the story? 2. Describe the Rainbow Fish using both direct and indirect characterization (use attached chart). 3. What motivates the Rainbow Fish? 4. Is the Rainbow Fish a static or dynamic character? Explain your response. Type of Indirect Characterization Example Explanation Speech What is revealed through the character’s private thoughts/feelings? Effect on Others What does the character say? How does the character speak? Thoughts What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? How do other characters feel or behave in reaction to the character? Actions What does the character do? How does the character behave? Looks What does the character look like? How does the character dress, etc.?