English First Additional Language - Term 4 - Week 7

Character development refers to the process by which an author creates a believable and complex character. This can be achieved through various techniques, including dialogue, actions, and inner thoughts. Characters can be dynamic, changing throughout the story, or static, remaining the same. Understanding how these elements contribute to a character's role in the narrative helps readers engage more deeply with the text.

Consider the character of Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice.' Through her witty dialogue and strong opinions, Austen reveals Elizabeth's intelligence and independence. As the story progresses, Elizabeth's interactions with Mr. Darcy challenge her initial prejudices, showcasing her growth and complexity as a character. This transformation is crucial to the narrative's themes of love and social class.

In pairs, choose a character from a text you have read this term. Discuss how the author develops this character through specific examples of dialogue, actions, and thoughts. Consider questions such as: What are the character's motivations? How do they change throughout the story? Share your findings with the class, focusing on how these elements enhance the narrative.

Write a short essay analyzing the development of a character from a novel or short story of your choice. In your essay, include an introduction that states your thesis, body paragraphs that provide evidence from the text, and a conclusion that reflects on the character's significance to the overall story. Be prepared to share your essay with a peer for feedback.

• The process of creating a setting
• The way an author builds a character's personality
• The plot of the story
• The themes presented in the text

Answer: The way an author builds a character's personality

Character development refers specifically to how an author constructs and evolves a character's traits and motivations throughout a narrative.

• Dialogue
• Actions
• Setting description
• Inner thoughts

Answer: Setting description

While setting description can enhance the story, it does not directly contribute to character development like dialogue, actions, or inner thoughts do.

Answer: An example of a dynamic character is Elizabeth Bennet from 'Pride and Prejudice' because she undergoes significant personal growth and changes her views on love and social class.

Dynamic characters evolve throughout the story, often learning from their experiences, which is exemplified by Elizabeth's transformation.

• It provides background information.
• It reveals character traits and relationships.
• It describes the setting.
• It summarizes the plot.

Answer: It reveals character traits and relationships.

Dialogue is a powerful tool for revealing a character's personality, motivations, and relationships with others.

• Harry Potter
• Sherlock Holmes
• Frodo Baggins
• Jay Gatsby

Answer: Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock Holmes is often considered a static character because he remains consistent in his traits and methods throughout the stories.