Final answer:
Direct characterization is when an author explicitly describes a character's traits, as opposed to indirect characterization, where a character's traits are inferred through actions and dialogue. The correct answer to the question is A. How the character’s personality is described. Option A
Step-by-step explanation:
Direct characterization refers to the way an author explicitly describes a character. This includes descriptions of the character's physical appearance, thoughts, feelings, and personality traits that are clearly stated within the text. For instance, a sentence like, “Samantha is generous and always shares her lunch with her classmates,” is an example of direct characterization, as it plainly attributes traits to Samantha.
It's important to distinguish between direct and indirect characterization. Indirect characterization shows us the characters through their actions, what they say (dialogue), and how other characters react to them.
This might involve the reader inferring details about the characters based on their behavior or the reactions of others. For example, if Samantha offers her lunch to a friend without being asked, this action indirectly suggests generosity.
Returning to the original question, only one of the provided options is an example of direct characterization. Choices B (What the character says) and C (The action the character takes) are examples of indirect characterization. Therefore, the correct answer is:
A. How the character’s personality is described