📚ap english literature review

Characterization

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Characterization refers to how an author develops and portrays characters in a literary work. It involves describing their physical appearance, revealing their thoughts and feelings, and showing their actions and interactions with others.