Home > Subjects > English > English level 3 > 3.4 Visual or oral text > Subject content > Characterisation
- Subject: English
- AS: 90723
- Level: 3
- Credits: 3
- External
3.4 Respond critically to oral or visual text studied
Characterisation
Characterisation is the way the characters in the text(s) are presented so the reader is guided to make certain judgements that reinforce the themes of the text(s). 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, and direct authorial comment. It is through the characters that the reader understands different emotional and personal experiences and the themes of the text(s).
When looking at how a character changes or develops think about relationships, conflict of ideas or personalities.
Key points to study
- Major character – describe their physical and personal qualities, any strengths and weaknesses and how they deal with an important issue.
- How relationships are created and developed 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.
Ways to study characters
- What language techniques have been used to make the character seem real?
- Identify 3 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?
- How do some characters reflect or conform to stereotypes or values of society?
- How does the point of view impact on the reader's understanding and response to characters?
- How has change in character(s) been used to show insight into the human condition?
- How are characters developed through visual means, rather than spoken words?
Other keywords for characterisation: protagonist, major character, minor character, subject, participant, individual, important, relationship, challenge, weakness, strength, change, develop, decision, lesson, conflict, issue, qualities, traits, profile, identity, stereotype.
Scroll to the heading characterisation.
