Examples of actions and the feelings they suggest in literature

📚 Quick Study Guide

• ✍️ Actions often speak louder than words in literature. Authors use character actions to convey emotions and states of mind.
• 🎭 Pay attention to body language (shaking, trembling), physical interactions (hugging, pushing), and repetitive behaviors (nail-biting, pacing).
• 🏃‍♀️ A character running away might suggest fear, guilt, or a desire for freedom.
• 🤝 Offering a hand could symbolize friendship, support, or forgiveness.
• 😭 Crying might indicate sadness, relief, or even anger. Context is key!
• 🎁 Giving a gift can represent love, gratitude, or an attempt to appease someone.
• 😠 Clenched fists often suggest anger, frustration, or determination.

Practice Quiz

1. What feeling does a character’s constant fidgeting MOST likely suggest?
   1. A) Happiness
   2. B) Excitement
   3. C) Anxiety
   4. D) Boredom
2. Which action would BEST suggest a character is feeling remorseful?
   1. A) Smiling brightly
   2. B) Avoiding eye contact and apologizing
   3. C) Speaking loudly and confidently
   4. D) Ignoring everyone around them
3. A character slams a door. What feeling is MOST likely being conveyed?
   1. A) Joy
   2. B) Curiosity
   3. C) Anger
   4. D) Fear
4. What might a character who repeatedly checks their watch be feeling?
   1. A) Contentment
   2. B) Impatience
   3. C) Gratitude
   4. D) Apathy
5. If a character offers another character their coat in the rain, what does this MOST likely suggest?
   1. A) Dislike
   2. B) Indifference
   3. C) Care and concern
   4. D) Annoyance
6. A character who stares blankly out a window for hours is MOST likely feeling:
   1. A) Energetic
   2. B) Melancholy
   3. C) Enthusiastic
   4. D) Peaceful
7. What feeling is MOST likely suggested when a character bursts into tears upon hearing good news?
   1. A) Sadness
   2. B) Relief
   3. C) Anger
   4. D) Disappointment