What is the definition of direct characterization?
The definition of direct characterization is when an author, though a narrator or another character, explicitly tells the reader what kind of person a character is.
Direct Characterization
Last Updated on February 25, 2021, by eNotes Editorial. Word Count: 104
Direct characterization occurs when an author explicitly tells the reader what kind of person a character is. This information can be given by a narrator or a character in the story.
Correct examples:
- “Sam was a stubborn and proud boy.”
- “‘I am a very independent person,’ Sam said.”
- In this...
(The entire section contains 104 words.)
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Direct characterization occurs when an author explicitly tells the reader what kind of person a character is. This information can be given by a narrator or a character in the story.
Correct examples:
- “Sam was a stubborn and proud boy.”
- “‘I am a very independent person,’ Sam said.”
- In this case, a character is directly characterizing himself.
Incorrect example:
- “Sam was not pleased when he received a C- on his math exam.”
- Remember that direct characterization occurs only when something is said that speaks to someone’s character traits. Not every explicit description or revelation is direct characterization.
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