Characterization refers to the process of
describing the appearance, action, and thoughts of the persons
discussed within a text. Characterization is an important part of
description, because it causes readers to more fully understand
the motivations of characters. Effective characterization works
in harmony with setting and plot to make the reader connect on
a more intimate level to a text. In order to create realistic characters,
a writer should be certain to give each person within the text:
- a unique way of behaving
- a unique way of speaking
- a unique appearance
- a unique was of thinking
If this can be accomplished, the text will achieve a heightened sense of believability.
