Characterization

Definition

Characterization refers to the methods and techniques used by writers to create and develop characters in a narrative. It includes the ways in which characters are presented through their actions, dialogue, thoughts, and interactions with others. This development is crucial for establishing character depth and relatability, influencing audience engagement and emotional response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the works of Christopher Marlowe, characterization is often achieved through complex protagonists who embody the struggle between ambition and moral limitations.
2. Ben Jonson’s satirical comedy frequently employs exaggerated characterization to critique societal norms and human behavior, using humor to highlight flaws in his characters.
3. During Shakespeare's early career, he focused on developing multi-dimensional characters that display a range of emotions, reflecting the complexities of human nature.
4. Terence's comedies are known for their nuanced characterization of everyday people, emphasizing social behaviors and moral lessons through relatable figures.
5. The use of stock characters in Terence's comedies serves to establish comedic conventions while allowing for deeper character exploration beyond stereotypes.

Review Questions

• How does Marlowe’s use of characterization influence the themes present in his plays?
  • Marlowe’s characterization often emphasizes inner conflict and moral ambiguity, particularly in characters like Doctor Faustus. This depth creates a tension between ambition and ethical considerations, highlighting themes of human desire, knowledge, and consequence. By crafting complex protagonists who grapple with their choices, Marlowe invites the audience to reflect on the consequences of unchecked ambition.
• In what ways does Jonson's approach to characterization differ from that of Shakespeare in their respective comedic works?
  • Jonson’s approach is more focused on satire, employing exaggerated traits to critique societal norms through his characters. In contrast, Shakespeare delves into emotional depth and complexity, presenting characters that embody various human experiences and relationships. While Jonson uses caricature to deliver social commentary, Shakespeare's characters engage in nuanced dialogues that explore their inner thoughts and feelings.
• Evaluate the impact of characterization techniques used by Terence on modern comedic writing.
  • Terence’s techniques of indirect characterization laid foundational elements for modern comedy by focusing on relatable human experiences and social behaviors. His use of stock characters allowed for comedic situations while providing room for individual character development. This balance influences contemporary comedic writing by blending archetypes with genuine character arcs, making audiences resonate with both humor and realism in character portrayal.

Related terms

Direct Characterization: A technique where the author explicitly describes a character's traits, providing clear details about their personality and motivations.

Indirect Characterization: A method where the author reveals a character's traits through their actions, dialogue, and reactions of other characters, allowing readers to infer details about them.

Protagonist: The main character in a story, often faced with challenges that drive the plot forward and elicit audience sympathy or interest.