Theory of Characters and Characterization
it can be observed not only from the author’s narration but also from the characters’ speech and actions. Each character as their own role exposes the
nature of people itself to be their distinct feature. In
Reading the Novel, An Introduction to the Techniques of Interpreting Fiction
E. M. Forster, as pointed by Henkle, says that the character can be divided into flat characters who are compelled by a set idea in their creater, and round
characters who embody all the variations and complexities of human nature. Round character is somewhat difficult to describe because this character expresses
the complexity of a human nature. Forster adds that the easiest way to identify a round character is by testing whether the character is capable to surprise the
reader or not. It can be said this character shows some qualities that can evoke the reader’s feeling 1977: 91.
Further Harmon 2009: 95 says, “The characterization is the creation of imagery persons so that they can seem lifelike.” It means that the characterization
is a method of describing the character. The character’s development is explained and described through characterization. By learning the theory of characterization,
the writer is able to know the way the author describe the characters. Therefore, observing the character’s action, attitude, behavior, and reaction is used to know
their role in society and the interpersonal relationship with other people. In
A Glossary of Literary Terms
, Abrams and Harpham say, A broad distinction is frequently made between alternative methods for
characterizing that is, establishing the distinctive characters of the persons in a narrative: showing and telling. In showing also called “the
dramatic method”, the author simply presents the characters talking and acting, and leaves it entirely up to the reader to infer the motives and
dispositions that lie behind what they say and do. The author may show PLAGIAT MERUPAKAN TINDAKAN TIDAK TERPUJI
not only external speech and action, but also a character’s inner thoughts,
feelings, and responsiveness to events; for a highly developed mode of such inner showing, see
stream of consciousness
. In telling, the author intervenes authoritatively in order to describe, and often to evaluate, the
motives and dispositional qualities of the characters 2009: 43.
The theory above explains that the way to describe a person can be both by showing and telling. The author characterizes the characters by presenting them in
the way they talk and act. Besides presenting them in talking and acting, the author presents them by directly telling the reader what kind of persons they are.