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.
What kind of technique does an author use to show a character’s traits through that character’s dialogue?
A. symbolism and irony
B. point of view
C. direct characterization
D. indirect characterization
B?
I don't think so.
Oh so is it A?
No, not A.
That's your second guess. Please don't post about this again. It won't be answered.
Go back and read that linked webpage I gave you yesterday so you understand these different terms in the answer choices.
No, the correct answer is D. indirect characterization.
In this passage, the author uses dialogue to indirectly reveal information about the character of Harry. We learn that people tend to underestimate him because of his appearance and the way he speaks. The author doesn't explicitly state Harry's traits, but rather allows the reader to infer these traits based on his dialogue and how others respond to him. This technique of revealing a character's traits indirectly through dialogue is a form of indirect characterization.