Character Analysis

Character Analysis Thesis Statement and Introduction Paragraph

Thesis Statement • Follow this model for a character who experiences a significant change in a story. Topic, phrase that names the original qualities, action verb + force(s) of change+ final qualities. Ex. Ebenezer Scrooge, originally a greedy and selfish character, changes drastically after his ghostly experiences to become a selfless and kind soul.

Another way…. • Although Ebenezer Scrooge begins as a greedy and selfish character, his ghostly experiences cause him to change to a selfless and kind man by the end of the story.

Now Write Your Own! • Topic: _________________________ • Original Qualities: ____________________ • Action Verb: ___________________ • Force(s) of change: _____________________________ • “New” Qualities/Traits: ______________, ______________, and ____________. Put it all together in one nice sentence! ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________ ____________________________________________

Another Option • If a character has a significant impact or influence on the main character, you might consider why or how. • Topic, identify key character traits or values, action verb, and description of influence. Example: you write one!

Introduction • Attention Grabber • Introduce topic and give any necessary background information • THESIS STATEMENT

General Attention-Grabbing Techniques • Famous Quote/Quote from Text • Startling Fact or Statistic • Ask a Question • Paint a Picture (use imagery) • Anecdote • Make an accurate statement about people in general

Attention Grabber for Character Analysis • Famous Quote/Quote from text “He looked down in wonder at his split knuckles and at the blood that flowed down between his fingers” (Steinbeck 12). • “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty…” (Poverbs 16:18).

Introduce Topic/Background Info • “He looked down in wonder at his split knuckles and at the blood that flowed down between his fingers” (Steinbeck 12). In John Steinbeck’s The Pearl, Kino often finds himself dangerously expressing his anger when he is faced with conflict. However, there is more to Kino’s character than just a short temper. • “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty…” (Poverbs 16:18). Kino from John Steinbeck’s The Pearl would benefit from this sound advice. Even though he is quick to get angry, Kino’s character goes far beyond his temper.

Thesis Statement • Here insert the thesis statement you have written for your character. Be sure that it FLOWS with what you have written for an attention-grabber and introduction of topic. If it doesn’t, then edit as necessary.

Transition Sentence • This sentence transitions to the first quality you will discuss in the first paragraph. This sentence should be SIMPLE and not go into too much detail. Save that for the first body paragraph.

Example 1: • “He looked down in wonder at his split knuckles and at the blood that flowed down between his fingers” (Steinbeck 12). In John Steinbeck’s The Pearl, Kino often finds himself dangerously expressing his anger when he is faced with conflict. However, there is more to Kino’s character than just a short temper. Kino, originally a brave, dedicated husband and father, quickly becomes greedy and ambitious throughout his terrible experiences with the Pearl of the World. • Even though Kino will change as a result of the pearl, he starts out as a brave man protecting his family.

One Last Time…. • Attention Grabber (Quote required for this essay) • Introduce topic/give background info • Be sure to include the title and author’s name • THESIS STATEMENT • Remember to be sure it FLOWS!!!!!

Character Analysis