| Character |
Study Guide
At the end of this unit you will be able to:
- describe how authors use various techniques to define the characters
- describe how authors use character descriptions to develop the story
Character.
Every person or animal who takes part in the action of a story, poem or play is called a character. The most important characters are called major characters. Everyone else is a minor character.Character Traits.
A quality that a character exhibits is called a character trait. This trait can be indicated by the character's statements, actions, or thoughts.For instance, an author may create a fictitious character by simply describing the character.
Karen was small for her age and inclined to plumpness. Her blue eyes viewed the people and events around her with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. She was not a woman, but she was past being a child; too sophisticated for toys, she might still, on impulse, turn a somersault on the living rug.
- Approximately how old is Karen?
- What details help you visualize her?
- What details help to reveal something about Karen's personality?
An author may also reveal a character through his speech or actions.
"But why can't I go?" Karen wailed. "Everyone else is going. You never let me go anywhere!" You just don't want me to grow up and have fun!" Karen wheeled around and stormed out of the house, slamming the door behind her.
- What does Karen reveal about her personality in the speech?
- What do her actions contribute to your picture of her?
An author may give the reactions and opinions of other characters.
"I've known Karen for a long time, ever since first grade. We've been best friends since last year. I like her because...well, I guess it's because she is always so happy and sure of herself and she's good at things like baseball, and swimming and painting and stuff." Joanie paused, then added, "Everybody at school likes her."
- What is Joanie's relationship to Karen?
- What do you learn about Karen from Joanie's comments?
An author may show the character's inner thoughts and feelings.
The sunlight trickled between the slates of the bamboo blinds. Karen stretched luxuriously, pleasantly aware of the tingling sensation in her muscles.She really ought to get up, she thought. Sally was coming over at eleven. Maybe she should make some sandwiches so they could eat out in the backyard. Mrs. Henley was taking them to the beach in the afternoon. She should finish that letter to Peggy...maybe she would tonight...if she remembered...and if she had time.
- What is Karen thinking about?
- What do her thoughts tell you about her personality?
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