Home > Subjects > English > English level 3 > 3.3 Shakespeare > Subject content > Characterisation
- Subject: English
- AS: 90722
- Level: 3
- Credits: 3
- External
3.3 Respond critically to Shakespearean drama studied
Characterisation
Characterisation is the way the characters in the text are presented so the audience is guided to make certain judgements that reinforce the themes of the text. Characterisation is shown by the words, actions, and reactions of a character, how other characters speak about them, how they deal with conflict, their thoughts and feelings, soliloquies, asides, and monologues.
It is through the characters that the audience understands different emotional and personal experiences and the themes of the text. When looking at how a character changes or develops think about relationships, conflict of ideas or personalities. If you are studying a tragedy think about the flaw or weakness and the consequences of this failing. Read about the hero in Shakespeare's tragedy.
Key points to study
- Major character – describe their physical and personal qualities, any strengths and weaknesses or flaws, and how they deal with an important issue.
- Relationships between main and minor characters.
- How are the characters revealed or developed? Think about style and language features.
- Conflict with other characters or within a character.
- Role (purpose or function) of a minor character in the text could be used to reveal certain characteristics about the main character.
Ways to study characters
- What language techniques have been used to make the character seem real?
- Identify three examples of when the main character showed or lacked responsibility, honesty, insight, or self-knowledge. How do these qualities show changes in the character?
- Compare the qualities and circumstances of the main character and a significant minor character. How does this relationship affect each individual?
Other keywords for characterisation: protagonist, major character, minor character, subject, participant, individual, important, relationship, challenge, weakness, strength, change, development, decision, lesson, conflict, issue, qualities, traits, profile.
