Question

Which sentence is an example of indirect characterization? My younger sister was clearly frightened by the booming thunder and flashes of lightning. My friend often displays childish and immature behavior when he doesn't get his way. I couldn't believe how surprised and overjoyed my mother was when she received the news. I am quick to say thank you and return the favor if someone does something nice for me.

Answer 1

The sentence with indirect characterization is 'My friend often displays childish and immature behavior when he doesn't get his way.' Indirect characterization is shown through a character's behavior, actions, or interactions, rather than explicit statements.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of indirect characterization is given in the sentence 'My friend often displays childish and immature behavior when he doesn't get his way.' This is a case of indirect characterization as the author does not directly state the character traits of the friend, but rather we glean their immaturity and childishness from their behavior when things do not go according to their wishes. This is distinct from direct characterization, where the author explicitly delineates the nature or traits of a character.

In contrast, the other sentences do not use indirect characterization. They leverage explicit statements or personal reflections rather than behaviors or actions to illuminate character attributes.

Understanding Indirect Characterization

• 'The Storm' by Kate Chopin might provide an example for understanding indirect characterization better. The way the main character reacts to the storm indirectly reveals their fear and unease, not through explicit statements but through their actions and interactions with the environment.
• Another literary technique in indirect characterization is using metaphors or similes. For example, 'She stands like a tree, solid and rooted.' This sentence indirectly tells us that the woman is steadfast and unyielding, akin to a tree that stands strong.

Learn more about Indirect Characterization

Answer 2

The sentence that is an example of indirect characterization is:

D. I am quick to say thank you and return the favor if someone does something nice for me.

Step-by-step explanation:

Options A through C use direct characterization. People are being described directly, explicitly, so to speak, through the use of adjectives - "frightened", "childish and immature", "surprised and overjoyed". However, letter D makes use of indirect characterization. Instead of using adjectives, the speaker is describing himself through his actions. When he says he thanks others and returns the favor, we can indirectly infer that he is grateful.