Literary Analysis: Character and Characterization

Read the selection. Then, answer the questions that follow.

People who don’t know Harry tend to underestimate him. They cast a skeptical eye on his typical outfit: ragged jeans and shirts that bear evidence of his most recent meal. And his most frequently uttered expression, “Waaaal, I just don’t know,” can make him sound less than bright. So, some enter a negotiating session with Harry relaxed and confident that their side will prevail and that Harry will gain no concessions for his group. That assumption is one that Harry cultivates, and it is a big, big mistake.

Which kinds of characterization does this selection include?

A. direct
B. indirect
C. direct and indirect
D. internal

A?

No.

http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/lesson_images/lesson800/Characterization.pdf

Oh ok so its B. right?

To determine which kinds of characterization this selection includes, we need to understand the definitions of each type.

Direct characterization is when the author directly tells the reader about a character's traits or qualities. It usually involves straightforward statements about the character's appearance, personality, or actions.

Indirect characterization, on the other hand, requires the reader to infer the character's traits or qualities based on their actions, dialogue, or thoughts. It involves reading between the lines and making interpretations about the character's traits.

Internal characterization refers to the character's own thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, providing insights into their personality and motivations.

Now, let's look back at the passage. In this selection, we can identify both direct and indirect characterization.

We see direct characterization when the author explicitly describes Harry's typical outfit and frequently uttered expression, making statements about his appearance and how he sounds. The direct statements are: "ragged jeans and shirts that bear evidence of his most recent meal" and "And his most frequently uttered expression, 'Waaaal, I just don’t know,' can make him sound less than bright."

At the same time, we also see indirect characterization as the reader infers from the description that people tend to underestimate Harry and that he cultivates this underestimation as a strategy. These inferences are made by interpreting the skepticism and assumptions of others.

Since the passage includes both direct and indirect characterization, the answer is C. direct and indirect.