Characterisation in Fiction

Characterisation refers to the technique writers employ to create characters that feel real and believable within their narratives. When analysing texts, it's common to perceive characters as actual individuals. However, it's crucial to recognise that authors create characters using language as their primary tool. 

Consider the ensemble of characters within a text:

Character Traits: What traits define each character, and how do you discern these qualities?

Dialogue: Pay attention to what characters say, as their dialogue often reveals their personality, motivations, and conflicts.

Actions: Analyse the actions and behaviours of characters, as these provide insight into their intentions and inner workings.

Description: Examine how characters are described by the narrator or other characters. Details about appearance, demeanour, and habits can offer valuable clues about their identities.

Perception by Others: Consider how characters are perceived by other characters within the narrative. This can shed light on their social standing, relationships, and influence within the story.

By scrutinising these aspects of characterisation, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the characters' roles, motivations, and significance within the text. It allows for a more nuanced interpretation of the author's portrayal of human nature and the dynamics between characters in the narrative.

Characterisation Example: 

Jack Merridew in "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding. 

Jack Merridew undergoes a profound transformation throughout the novel, evolving from a charismatic choirboy to a ruthless leader consumed by savagery.

Dialogue: Jack's dialogue evolves as he becomes increasingly influenced by his primal instincts. Initially, his speech is refined and persuasive, reflecting his leadership qualities and ability to rally the other boys. However, as he descends into savagery, his language becomes coarse and aggressive, mirroring his descent into barbarism.

Actions: Jack's actions serve as a barometer of his moral decline. Initially, he is eager to establish order and assert his authority, organising the boys into a choir and implementing rules. However, as the island descends into chaos, Jack becomes obsessed with hunting and violence, forsaking reason and civilisation in favour of brutality and domination.

Description: Golding's vivid descriptions of Jack highlight his physical prowess and commanding presence. He is depicted as tall, athletic, and commanding, exuding confidence and charisma. However, as the novel progresses, Jack's appearance becomes increasingly feral and menacing, reflecting his transformation into a primal, instinct-driven creature.

Perception by Others: Initially, Jack is admired and respected by the other boys for his leadership qualities and assertiveness. However, as his behaviour becomes increasingly erratic and violent, he becomes feared and loathed by many, particularly those who cling to notions of civilisation and order. Despite this, Jack garners a loyal following among those who are drawn to his unrestrained power and disregard for societal norms.

Through the nuanced portrayal of Jack Merridew, Golding explores the fragility of civilisation and the capacity for savagery within human nature. Jack's descent into barbarism serves as a chilling reminder of the thin veneer of civility that separates humanity from chaos, prompting readers to contemplate the darker aspects of the human psyche and the consequences of unchecked power.

Characters and Contrasts

When analysing a text, it's crucial to delve into how characters evolve and interact, as this can unveil significant themes or concepts embedded within the narrative. Writers often employ language strategically to elicit specific reader responses towards characters.

Seek out Contrasts and Complexities

Look beyond surface-level portrayals and explore the nuances of characters, including their internal conflicts and contradictions. Just as in real life, characters in literature are seldom purely good or bad; they possess multifaceted personalities.

Contrasts Between Characters

Intellectuals vs. Emotion-driven Individuals: Characters may be distinguished by their reliance on rational thinking versus their emotional responses to situations.

Orators vs. Actors: Some characters may excel in verbal communication, while others demonstrate their intentions through actions.

Social Butterflies vs. Loner Types: Contrasts between characters who thrive in social settings and those who prefer solitude can reveal insights into their personalities.

Predators vs. Prey: Characters may be categorised as either opportunists who exploit others or as victims of circumstance.

Clashing Desires: Conflict arises when characters pursue conflicting goals or desires.

Contrasts Within a Character

Words vs. Deeds: Characters may say one thing but act in opposition to their stated beliefs or intentions.

Sacrifice for Personal Gain: A character may make sacrifices to achieve their goals, even if it means compromising their values or principles.

Internal Conflicts: Characters may grapple with conflicting desires or motivations, torn between two opposing forces.

By examining these layers of complexity within characters, readers can gain deeper insights into the intricacies of human nature and the themes explored within the text.