Understanding Characterization: Round vs. Flat Characters in Literature
This guide explores the concepts of round and flat characters in literature, detailing how dynamic characters evolve through conflicts while static characters remain unchanged. It highlights direct and indirect characterization methods, providing examples for better understanding. Discover how character traits are revealed through actions, thoughts, and environment, and learn to identify the nuances in character development. Perfect for literature enthusiasts seeking to enhance their comprehension of character dynamics and their significance within stories.
Understanding Characterization: Round vs. Flat Characters in Literature
E N D
Presentation Transcript
Round Characters Examples? Brain Robeson Gale Sayers PeetaMellark Main characters -Hero *Characters that change as a result of the conflicts they face during novel. *They make discoveries about themselves and the world around them.
Another name for ROUND • Dynamic characters- same as round • Character is complex, changes
Flat Characters? • Characters that don’t change • Stay the same from beginning to end Examples: Minor characters Effie Trinkett, villians, …
Another name for FLAT • Static characters • They stay the same throughout the whole novel.
Analogy • A round character is to _________; As a flat character is to __________. Which type of character changes? Which character type does not change?
Direct Characterization • Author states it directly to reader • Mrs. Schertzer was angry. • Mrs. Villalobos has gray hair. • Mrs. Richardson wore a pretty pink cowboy hat to the rodeo.
Indirect Characterization • Author reveals character traits INDIRECTLY • Reader has to think and draw conclusions • Appearance • What others say about character • What character says • Thoughts/feelings • Environment
Examples of IndirectAppearance and Actions • Mrs. Schertzer’s face turned red, eyes cringed, and her fists punched the desk. • We know she is angry through appearance and actions • Mrs. Villalobos’ face looked like a dried prune as she hobbled around the senior apartment building with her polka dotted cane. • We know that she is old, yet hip(fancy cane)!
When Characterization is found in Quotations • “Oh my, wasn’t that nice of Josh to help Mrs. Villalobos across the street? I would never have done that,” smirked Emma. • Indirect : words about another character (Josh is kind)and word spoken by the character (Emma is not kind)
Thoughts/Feelings/Environment • Heather couldn’t imagine winning the twirling competition. Jasmine was just too tough. • Doubt, discourages, lacking confidence ********************************* Mrs. Schertzer’s desk had papers piled in mutilated stacks, paperclips and pens hid below her grade book and folders, and books were wavering on the edge ready to plunge into oblivion. - Environment- she is too unorganized and messy
Direct or Indirect • Mrs. Richardson’s hands shook as she attempted to disassemble the bomb. • Indirect Actions/Appearance • She is nervous • “I can’t believe that Heather won the twirling championship. That trophy was meant for me!” Screamed Jasmine. Then she had the nerve to shake my hand. UGH! • Indirect : word spoken by the character (Jasmine is jealous and angry) • Words spoken about (Heather has good sportsmanship)
Direct or Indirect • Mrs. Richardson was thrilled when she dismantled the bomb and saved Mt. Olympus. • Direct • Tears ran down her eyes as the President pinned the Medal of Bravery on her vest. • Indirect- Appearance- she was happy and honored
