Final answer:
Direct characterization (option a) occurs when an author explicitly states a character's traits, as opposed to indirect characterization which relies on actions and dialogue to convey these traits. Understanding both types is vital for creating engaging and believable characters in narratives. Violet's description is an example of direct characterization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Direct characterization is the process by which an author directly states a character's traits. An example of direct characterization is Option b) 'Violet was as lovely as her namesake flower, a blonde, with curling golden hair, dazzling dark.' This explicitly tells the reader about Violet's physical appearance and implies something about her character, using descriptive adjectives. In contrast, indirect characterization is shown through a character's actions, thoughts, dialogue, and reactions from others, without directly stating the traits. An example is Option a), where people's avoidance and lack of eye contact indicate the character's social position or personality, rather than an explicit description of the character.
Understanding characterization is crucial for engaging and immersing readers in the narrative. Characters that are dynamic and multidimensional tend to be more relatable and memorable. Whether in fiction or nonfiction, effective characterization enriches the story, making it more compelling and believable to the audience. This can be seen in literature, from novels with intricate character development to short stories where characters are quickly established. Within Naturalistic works, characterization is often utilized to depict the struggles of individuals within harsh environments, highlighting the Naturalistic perception of humans being subject to nature's indifference or their inherent traits and vices, as opposed to portraying characters with significant agency or the capacity for moral choice.