Stargirl & the Importance of Character

Your book report on Stargirl is due at the end of class today. Please make sure you have completed it (printed it out) by 4th period.

In fiction, the most important element is considered: Character

Finding a fictional character

Readers want characters who are recognizable; most similar to themselves.

Where to find a fictional character:
• From your own personality (autobiographical)
• From your own family, friends, acquaintances, peers, neighborhood (biographical)
• From psychology textbooks
• From astrology charts and columns
• From mythology or legends
• From the Bible
• From other stories you read, or novels you read
• From other media
• From your imagination

Most writers fuse autobiographical with biographical sources to create a fusion of character “traits” or what is essentially “characterization.”

Characterization: How do I show character in a story?

• Summarize history or background, or describe physical or mental traits (character/self-portrait)
Why use it? It develops character quickly all at once, allowing the writer to move on to the plot, setting, conflict, etc.

Beware:
 this sort of thing leads to telling, not showing
 you are essentially asking the reader to wait to continue or go further with the plot, conflict, dialogue, or other elements that move a story along
 It can slow the pace of your story down

• Repeat an action or habit (including what they say or dialogue)
Why use it? Allows reader to understand what a character normally does in a given situation; particularly useful if your character will soon do something “out of character.” Helps develop theme & dialogue moves plot
Beware:
 The habit or action should be essential to the motivation of the character, a plot point, or reveal setting, symbol, or conflict

• Describe appearance
Why use it? When you describe appearance, you suggest characterization to your reader through recognizable symbols
Beware:
 As “action/habit” above

• Describe a scene
Why use it? Moves the plot, conflict, etc. along quickly; sets your character in motion without needing to summarize or generalize.

• Combination of all methods
Most writers use a combination of these methods to develop and create their characters.