Characterization Vocab
What is a character trait?
A person or character’s behavior, which are shown by individual characteristics or qualities like a person’s conduct, habits, or attitudes. Character traits can be positive or negative.
"No! . . . Stop it! . . . I can't stand fights . . . I can't stand them . . ."
Cherry Valance
The youngest out of the Greasers.
Ponyboy Curtis
The red-headed Soc.
Cherry Valance
Direct characterization ________ what the character is like. Indirect characterization ________ what the character is like.
Direct characterization TELLS what the character is like. Indirect characterization SHOWS what the character is like.
What is a physical trait?
Observable characteristics of or features of a person’s body, like height, hair color, or eye color.👀
"He had been arrested, he got drunk, he rode in rodeos, lied, cheated, stole, rolled drunks, jumped small kids-he did everything."
Dallas Winston
Character who is physically abused at home.
Johnny Cade
The Soc that beat Johnny up badly.
Bob Sheldon (rings)
"The patient boy and quiet girl were both well mannered and did not disobey their mother." Explain what this direct characterization says about the boy and then the girl. Don't think too hard one this one, it's easy!
The boy is patient and the girl is quiet.
What is personality trait?
A characteristic or quality that defines a person’s unique way of thinking, feeling, and behaving.
Example: hardworking, anxious,
"I make good grades and have a high IQ and everything, but I don't use my head."
His prized possession is a 10 inch switchblade.
Two-Bit
What is a popular car type that the Socs often drive?
Mustang or Corvair
The little girl stole all her brother's toys little by little. Is this direct or indirect? Why?
Indirect. This statement tells WHAT the character is doing through their actions.
What is direct characterization?
This is when the author directly tells you about how a character looks or acts
EXAMPLE: Usually are physical traits of a character
"He was cocky, smart, and Soda's best buddy since grade school. (His) specialty was cars."
Steve Randle
Sodapop's most prized possession. He cried after a week after he lost it.
Mickey Mouse. His horse.
The Soc that had a thing for Two-Bit.
Marcia
Give an example of indirect characterization using an action done by Dally. Then, give a character trait to support your answer.
"He had been arrested, he got drunk, he rode in rodeos, lied, cheated, stole, rolled drunks, jumped small kids-he did everything." (ACTIONS)
Dally is dangerous and hostile.
What is indirect characterization?
We find out about the character through the author showing their mannerisms (how they act), their thoughts, or lines of dialogue (what they say)
EXAMPLE: Usually personality traits of a character
"He looks older than twenty - tough, cool, smart. He would be real handsome if his eyes weren't so cold."
Darry/Darrel Curtis
What is the name of the book Ponyboy reads to Johnny in the church?
Gone with the Wind
Why did Cherry tell Ponyboy to not say hi to her while at school?
It would damage her reputation.
OR
It's not "appropriate" for Socs to associate with Greasers, since they are from different social classes.
Choose a character from The Outsiders and give 3 examples of direct characterization.
HINT: Physical traits
Ms. Z will decide if your answer is correct!