Characterization/ Character Analysis Identifying Character Traits Characters do actions and these actions show us what kind of people

these characters are: friendly, sad, dejected, nosey, dominating, carefree, happy, open minded, confused, optimistic, pessimistic, angry, skillful, determined, inventive etc. When we talk about a character, we often describe that character in terms of character traits (characteristics), using descriptive adjectives like delighted, gloomy, scared, amazed, apprehensive, pensive etc that tell us the specific qualities of the character. More often, the author shows these traits to the readers through the actions the character does. Our job as readers is to draw a conclusion about the character's traits (to infer them) from what the character says, thinks, and does. An easy way to think about characters is to use a simple chart like the one below: 1. jot down actions of the character, then match them with descriptive adjectives you find suitable. OR 2 list character traits that match your character; then gather a list of actions to support the traits you've listed. (evidence from the text to support your analysis) 3. finally, write it in the form of paragraphs. Example: (a small bit out of) the character analysis of Harry Potter from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Planning stage 1: (following strategy 1 from the table above) ( chases Malfoy when he takes Neville's Remembrall runs to warn Hermione about the Mountain Troll on Halloween and helps Ron fight the Troll works to protect the Sorcerer's Stone and keep it away from Lord Voldemort) Planning stage 1: All these traits make us infer (understand/ interpret) that Harry is courageous, brave and helpful. But state why you give the particular adjectives (give reasons/ evidence). Written Form: Harry was courageous, brave and helpful, which was why he warned Hermione about the mountain troll. He even helped Ron fight it, which makes one realize that he was one to always stand by his friends. He was loyal and would never desert his friends in the hour of need.

Remember: Character analysis is basically done to check whether you understand a characters personality through what that character does in the story or not. Tips Be clear that character has to be inferred (understood) and is never stated explicitly (directly). To understand the character, get clues from the following: Physical traits (looks) Attire (way of dressing up) Actions (how does he behave i. normally ii. in changing situations) Opinions (what does he say? Who/what he sides with? Who/what he opposes?) Point of view (infer what he thinks and means) ______________________________________________________