Analyzing the Structural Context of an Afro-Asian Short Story: Characters & Characterization

Flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to characters and characterization in Afro-Asian literature, including definitions, character types, and methods of characterization.

What does the term “Afro-Asian Literature” refer to?

The spoken or written literary works (e.g., short stories, poems) produced by people from Africa and Asia.

In literature, what is prose?

A general classification of literature, either oral or written, that follows the natural flow of speech and is used in both fiction and non-fiction.

Define a character in a story.

A person, animal, being, creature, or thing represented in a story that performs actions and speaks dialogue to move the plot.

Who is the protagonist of a story?

The main character whose conflict drives the plot, which may be internal or external.

Who is the antagonist of a story?

The character that creates conflict for the protagonist.

What is a round character?

A fully developed character with complex personality traits who can learn, grow, or deteriorate by the story’s end.

What is a flat character?

A one-dimensional character with limited development.

Describe a dynamic (developing) character.

A character who undergoes change and growth during the story.

Describe a static character.

A character who does not undergo significant change throughout the story.

What is characterization?

The description of a character’s physical traits, point of view, personality, thoughts, and actions.

Name three common methods an author uses to reveal character traits.

1) Physical appearance; 2) What the character says, thinks, feels, and does; 3) What others say about and how they react to the character.

What is direct characterization?

When the author explicitly describes a character’s traits (e.g., “John was a kind and generous man”).

What is indirect characterization?

When the author shows a character’s traits through Speech, Thoughts, Effect on others, Actions, and Looks (STEAL).

Using the STEAL framework, list the five techniques of indirect characterization.

Speech, Thoughts, Effect on others, Actions, and Looks.