What is Direct Characterization? Definition & Examples for High School

📚 What is Direct Characterization?

Direct characterization is when an author explicitly tells the reader what a character is like. Think of it as the author directly stating the character's traits, personality, or qualities. There's no guesswork involved; the author simply tells you.

🔍 Quick Study Guide

• 🙋‍♀️ Definition: The author directly states a character's traits.
• ✍️ Method: Author 'tells,' rather than 'shows.'
• ✨ Example: "Jane was intelligent and kind."
• 🆚 Contrast: Opposite of indirect characterization (where you infer traits).
• 💡 Key words: Look for explicit descriptions and adjectives.

Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following is an example of direct characterization?
   1. She nervously tapped her foot.
   2. He was a cruel and heartless man.
   3. They exchanged glances across the room.
   4. The wind howled through the trees.
2. What is the primary characteristic of direct characterization?
   1. Subtlety
   2. Explicitness
   3. Ambiguity
   4. Symbolism
3. In direct characterization, who reveals the character's traits?
   1. The reader
   2. The character themselves
   3. The author
   4. Another character
4. Which sentence uses direct characterization?
   1. His eyes sparkled with mischief.
   2. She was a generous and compassionate leader.
   3. The dog wagged its tail excitedly.
   4. He slammed the door in anger.
5. Direct characterization is also known as:
   1. Showing
   2. Telling
   3. Inferring
   4. Suggesting
6. What is the opposite of direct characterization?
   1. Exposition
   2. Indirect characterization
   3. Dialogue
   4. Conflict
7. Which of these is NOT a benefit of using direct characterization?
   1. Clarity
   2. Efficiency
   3. Subtlety
   4. Directness