English 10
3 October 2011 Agenda
I. Test I
II. Complete Characterizations
Class work
III. Notes – Character Chart
Characterizations
Use quotes to provide one characterization for each of the
following characters: Mary Maloney, Patrick Maloney,
Mama Johnson, Maggie, and Dee (Wangero). State
whether the characterization is direct or indirect.
“Lamb to the Slaughter” – 316
“Everyday Use” - 77
1. Roald Dahl used indirect characterization when he
wrote about Mary Maloney: “There was a slow
smiling air about her, and about everything she
did.” Mary is a happy, content person.
Characters and Characterizations
Character – a story’s actor
Character Traits – behaviors of a character
Direct Characterization – an author states the character’s traits
Indirect Characterization – an author reveals traits through a
character’s appearance, dialogue, thoughts, and actions.
Flat Character – one or two key personality traits
Rounded Character – many personality traits
Dynamic Character – changes in an important way
Static Character – remains the same
Stock Character – fits our notions of a “type”, like a policeman
or a waitress.
Character – Notes
Character
Name
Flat
Round
Dynamic Static Stock
Traits (at least one)
Patrick Maloney
ambitious, cowardly
Mary Maloney
Jack Noonan
Sam, the grocer
Mama Johnson
Maggie Johnson
Dee (Wangero)
Hakim-a-Barber
Character – Notes
Character
Name
Flat
Round
Dynamic Static Stock
Traits (at least one)
Patrick Maloney
ambitious, cowardly
Mary Maloney
loving, impulsive,
clever
Jack Noonan
caring, diligent
Sam, the grocer
helpful
Mama Johnson
simple, self-reliant
Maggie Johnson
shy, modest, selfconscious
Dee (Wangero)
selfish, overconfident
Hakim-a-Barber
friendly, supportive