Characterization
Characterization in literature refers the step by step process wherein an author introduces and then describes a character. The character can be described directly by the author or indirectly through the actions, thoughts, and speech of the character. First, the writer introduces the character with noticeable emergence. Next, following the introduction of the character, the writer often talks about his behavior. After that, as the story progresses, the thought-process of the character. Then, the next stage involves the character expressing his opinions and ideas and getting into conversations with the rest of the characters. The final part shows how others in the story respond to the character’s personality.
Pygmalion Example: A character that follows the characterization process to a T is Eliza. In the first act, we are introduced to Eliza who makes an impression on us with her exaggerated accent and wild behavior. In the second act, we get to know her behavior a bit better when she is first introduced to Higgins. She is wild and intemperate yet firm in her beliefs and independent. In the third act, we get to know more of her thought process. We learn that she is a quick learner and quite capable of the task given to her. In the fourth act Eliza expresses her thoughts about Higgins using her freely. And in the fifth act of the play we observe Higgins’ reactions to the falling out between him and Eliza and ultimately what he thinks of her and her personality. |