Short Story and Drama Fundamentals

Vocabulary terms covering the basics of short stories, drama, character types, and characterization methods.

Short Story

A written story that can be read in one sitting.

Drama (Play)

A story written to be performed on stage by actors.

Character

A person, animal, or being in a story who performs actions and speaks dialogue.

Major Characters

The most important characters in the story who change and are involved in the main problem.

Protagonist

The main character.

Antagonist

A character who opposes the main character.

Minor Characters

Characters who are not the focus of the story but help move the story forward.

Characterization

The way the author shows what the character is like.

Direct Characterization (Telling)

A method where the author tells the reader exactly what the character is like, for example: 'Ruth is tired and worried.'