Short Story Creation: Characterization Lesson #1

Last updated over 5 years ago
7 questions
Note from the author:
Creative Writing class; short story creation
5

What do you already know? For the characterization terms that you already know, write the definition next to the word. If you don't know any of them, that's okay -- just write "Learning!"

5

Does your current short story idea have a protagonist with a direct opposite antagonist, OR


does your short story have a main character with other minor characters, no direct villain or bad guy? Explain your characters so far.

5

Do you have a minor character in your short story that will act as a foil to the main character? If so, in what way? If not, would you like to create a foil to enrich the characterization of your main character. If not that's okay, just say so!

5

How will your main character change from the beginning of your story to the end to make it dynamic?

5

Will your main character be a flat character or a round character? Explain your answer.



5

For your main character in your short story, write a few narrative sentences that shows you understand what direct characterization means.

5

INDIRECT CHARACTERIZATION TECHNIQUES: Indirect characterization uses five different methods that combine different elements to reveal a character's personality. To remember these five elements, simply remember the acronym STEAL, which stands for speech, thoughts, effect on others, actions and looks.

Write a short passage of your main character interacting with another character that shows an example of indirect characterization.