SF1 - Lesson: Explaining the Function of Character

Explaining the Function of Character

Characters in literature allow readers to study and explore a range of values, beliefs, assumptions, biases, and cultural norms represented by those characters. Characters are also the basis of plot, conflict, and dialogue. Without characters, you don't have literature! Starting with character analysis is essential for a strong foundation in AP English Literature. In this lesson, you will learn how authors use characterization to create perspectives about characters.

Characters and Characterization

The College Board provides the following description of character:

Authors create characters through description, dialogue, and behaviors that reveal characters to readers. The descriptions of characters may come from a speaker narrator, other characters, or the characters themselves. Perspective is how narrators, characters, or speakers understand their circumstances and is informed by background, personality traits, biases, and relationships. Thus a character’s perspective is both shaped and revealed by relationships with other characters, the environment, the events of the plot, and the ideas expressed in the text.

Video Lesson

In the following video, you will learn about the aspects of Characterization and key adjectives to describe characters. Take notes on this content.

The above video is used courtesy of the Advanced Placement YouTube channel.

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