Characterization

Definition

Characterization is the process by which an author creates and develops characters in a story. This involves providing details about a character's personality, motives, behaviors, and relationships with other characters. Effective characterization can bring characters to life, making them relatable and memorable to the audience, and it can also drive the plot forward through the choices and conflicts that arise from these characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Contrast', Royall Tyler uses both direct and indirect characterization to develop his main characters, highlighting their contrasting traits.
2. The characters in 'The Contrast' reflect societal norms and values of the late 18th century, particularly regarding American identity and class distinctions.
3. The protagonist, Mr. Richmond, is depicted as a virtuous character whose qualities serve as a foil to the more extravagant and flawed character, Dimple.
4. Tyler employs humor and satire in his characterization to critique the superficiality of certain social behaviors and attitudes prevalent in his time.
5. Characterization plays a crucial role in 'The Contrast' by showcasing how individual choices affect personal relationships and societal perceptions.

Review Questions

• How does Royall Tyler use direct and indirect characterization to develop his characters in 'The Contrast'?
  • Royall Tyler skillfully employs both direct and indirect characterization to create depth in his characters. For instance, he uses direct characterization to describe Mr. Richmond's virtuous qualities explicitly, while indirect characterization reveals Dimple's flaws through her actions and dialogue. This combination helps establish a strong contrast between the two characters, emphasizing their differing values and approaches to life.
• Discuss the role of characterization in illustrating societal norms in 'The Contrast'.
  • Characterization in 'The Contrast' serves as a mirror to the societal norms of the late 18th century. Through characters like Mr. Richmond, who embodies virtue and integrity, and Dimple, who represents extravagance and superficiality, Tyler critiques societal expectations regarding class and behavior. The contrasting traits of these characters highlight how personal values influence social interactions and perceptions within their community.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of Tyler's characterization in conveying themes related to American identity in 'The Contrast'.
  • Tyler's characterization is highly effective in conveying themes related to American identity by showcasing characters that embody both aspirational qualities and critiques of excess. Mr. Richmond represents the ideal American virtue of hard work and integrity, while Dimple illustrates the pitfalls of a society that values appearance over substance. This duality not only engages readers but also invites them to reflect on the evolving nature of American identity during a time of change.

Related terms

Direct Characterization: A method where the author explicitly describes a character's traits, providing clear details about their personality and attributes.

Indirect Characterization: A technique where the author reveals a character's traits through their actions, thoughts, dialogue, and interactions with others, allowing readers to infer characteristics.

Protagonist: The main character in a story around whom the plot revolves, typically facing challenges and driving the narrative forward.