Short Story Creation: Characterization Lesson #1

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!"

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.

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!

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

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

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

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.