LIT NOTES

1. Characterization

Characterization is the way an author shows or explains what a character is like. Authors can use direct characterization, where they tell the reader a character’s traits, or indirect characterization, where the reader figures out the traits from what the character says, thinks, does, looks like, and how others react to them.

2. Direct Characterization

Direct characterization is when the author directly tells the reader what a character is like. For example, the author might say that a character is brave, selfish, impatient, or honest. The trait is clearly stated instead of making the reader figure it out.

3. Indirect Characterization

Indirect characterization is when the author shows what a character is like without directly stating the trait. Readers can use STEAL, which means Speech, Thoughts, Effect on others, Actions, and Looks. By looking at these clues, readers can figure out the character’s traits.

4. Protagonist vs. Antagonist

The protagonist is the main character or the character the story follows most closely. The protagonist usually has a goal, problem, or conflict to face. The antagonist is the character, force, or idea that blocks or challenges the protagonist. The antagonist does not always have to be a villain.

5. Flat vs. Round Character

A flat character usually has only one or two important traits and is simple to understand. A round character is more complex and realistic. Round characters can have different emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and even contradictions.

6. Static vs. Dynamic Character

A static character stays mostly the same from the beginning to the end of a story. Their beliefs or behavior do not change very much. A dynamic character changes in an important way because of the events in the story. This change could involve their values, confidence, understanding, or behavior.

7. Stock Characters

A stock character is a familiar type of character that appears in many different stories. Examples include the wise mentor, who guides the main character; the sidekick, who supports the main character; the bully, who creates fear or social pressure; and the trickster, who uses cleverness or mischief. These characters help readers quickly understand their roles.

8. Setting

Setting is the time and place where a story happens, along with the details connected to that place. Setting can include culture, historical period, geography, weather, and the time of day. Setting can also help create the story’s mood, conflict, and theme.