Character and Characterisation

Introduction

When we finish a great story, it is often the characters that stay with us long after we have forgotten the details of the plot. Characters are the heart of fiction; they are the beings whose struggles, desires, and decisions drive the narrative forward and give it meaning. Characterisation is the art and craft of how an author creates, develops, and reveals a character's personality to the reader. Understanding the techniques of characterisation is essential for any deep analysis of literature. This article will explore the different types of characters and the methods authors use to bring them to life.

Learning objectives

After reading this article, you should be able to:

• Define characterisation and explain its importance in storytelling.
• Distinguish between direct and indirect characterisation.
• Analyse the five key methods of indirect characterisation (STEAL).
• Differentiate between flat and round characters, and static and dynamic characters.
• Understand common character archetypes like the protagonist and antagonist.

The Two Main Techniques: Direct vs. Indirect Characterisation

Authors have two primary tools at their disposal to reveal a character's personality. …