Methods+of+Character+Portrayal

Author Methods of Character Portrayal x

**Discursive method **: narrator tells their qualities   **Dramatic method **: author allows characters to reveal themselves by how they act and speak. Also, other characters talk about other characters; the information is not necessarily reliable.   **Mixing methods **: most common and most effective Development of character: does the person grow in the novel? Motivation: point where plot and characters come together;  Author may stress either plot or character; it is how they blend that matters.
 * -Disadvantage: discourages reader's use of imagination.
 * +Advantage: saves time
 * +Advantage: characters are more lifelike; involves reader's participation.
 * -Disadvantage: takes more time and allows for possibility of misjudging characters.
 * plot is what characters do;
 * motivation is why they do it.

adapted from http://www.ci.maryville.tn.us/mhs/studyskills/compguide/LitAnaChar.htm