Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Focus on Characterization
CHARACTERIZATION
Characterization is an author's tool for teaching us about the characters in their writing. It is the process authors use to develop characters and create images of the characters for the audience. This book will focus on the two types of characterization: direct and indirect.
DIRECT CHARACTERIZATION
Direct characterization is exactly what it sounds like: direct. This is where the author directly states the characters traits. Sometimes the author just wants you to know what a character looks like, so they tell you. This type of characterization is great for helping creating a picture in the reader's mind!
In this example Steinbeck describes Lennie:
"...a huge man, shapeless of face, with large pale eyes, with wide, sloping shoulders; and he walked heavily, dragging his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws."
There's not too much to think about! Steinbeck comes right out and tells us that Lennie is huge and walks like a bear.
INDIRECT CHARACTERIZATION
Indirect characterization requires a little more work on the part of the reader. The author does not come out directly to tell you a charcter is funny or smart; they want you to figure it out for yourself! The author reveals the characteristics through the character's thoughts, words, actions, and how others respond to the character.
In this example Steinbeck teaches us a little more about Lennie:
"Lennie dabbled his big paw in the water and wiggled his fingers so the water arose in little splashes; rings widened across the pool to the other side and came back again. Lennie watched them go. 'Look, George. Look what I done.'"
Steinbeck doesn't tell us that Lennie is simple and child-like, instead he shows us Lennie doing something simple and child-like!
Which Type Is It?
Now that we've gone over the basics of distinguishing types of characterization, it's your turn to practice. Read the quote from the text below and determine if it's direct or indirect characterization and what it teaches us. Click on the coach to see if you were right!
"The first man was small and quick, dark of face, with restless eyes and sharp, strong features. Every part of him was defined: small, strong hands, slender arms and a thin and bony nose."
Which Type Is It?
Once again read the quote from the text below and determine if it's direct or indirect characterization and what it teaches us. Click on the coach to see if you were right!
"They had walked in single file down the path, and even in the open one stayed behind the other."
Which Type Is It?
Read this last quote from the text below and determine if it's direct or indirect characterization and what it teaches us. Click on the coach to see if you were right!
"At that moment a young man came into the bunk house; a thin young man with a brown face, with brown eyes and a head of tightly curled hair. He wore a work glove on his left hand, and like the boss, he wore high-heeled boots."
What Do I Do With It?
Now that we have reviewed direct and indirect characterization and their purpose, try to find your own examples as you read. Ask yourself why the author is telling you something. Very often there is a reason for everything an author writes. By questioning as you read, you can pick up on new things and in the process understand and enjoy it more!
