When diving into a story, readers often struggle to form a connection with characters beyond their internal thoughts and emotions. The problem lies in the visibility-or lack thereof—of these characters’ traits. In literature, external characterization provides the tools to build vivid and relatable characters by focusing on their physical appearance, actions, and dialogue. This article explores how authors can effectively utilize external characterization to enhance their narratives.
Table of Contents
What is External Characterization?
External characterization refers to the ways an author reveals a character’s personality through observable traits and actions. It includes a character’s appearance, mannerisms, speech, and behaviors that others can see and hear. Unlike internal characterization, which delves into a character’s thoughts and motivations, external characterization is more about what readers can glean through the character’s interactions and presence in the story.
Why is External Characterization Important?
External characterization matters because it helps readers visualize characters and often serves as the first impression a reader gets. For example, the way a character dresses, their posture, or how they speak can inform the reader about their social status, confidence level, or even their background. This initial visual and behavioral frame can draw readers into the story, making it easier to connect emotionally and intellectually.
Elements of External Characterization
Understanding how to use external characterization effectively involves several key elements.
Physical Appearance
The way a character looks can say volumes without uttering a single word. Authors often define their characters’ physical traits to help readers visualize them. Consider how J.K. Rowling gives detailed descriptions of Harry Potter’s round glasses and messy hair, instantly making him identifiable.
For a hypothetical example, imagine a character named Sarah, who has striking emerald eyes, curly red hair, and a penchant for wearing oversized sweaters. A reader can infer that Sarah might be quirky and possibly a bit introverted. Physical traits not only create a visual image but can also serve to symbolize deeper character traits.
Clothing and Accessories
What characters choose to wear can reveal their personalities, social status, and even their mood. A character who frequently wears ripped jeans and band t-shirts may suggest a laid-back, rebellious attitude. Meanwhile, someone in a tailored suit may come across as ambitious and professional.
For instance, consider a character named Tom, who always wears dark, formal clothing. This choice could indicate that he works in a serious profession or prefers to keep to himself. Conversely, a character named Luna might adorn herself in bright bohemian dresses, hinting at her creative and free-spirited nature. Such choices in attire enrich the character’s external characterization and can influence how readers perceive their traits and motivations.
Actions and Behaviors
Actions speak louder than words. A character’s behavior can vividly depict their personality. If a character rushes to help a stranger in need, readers might perceive them as kind-hearted. On the other hand, if a character is consistently seen ignoring others and focused solely on their phone, they may be deemed self-centered.
Think about a character named Mark, who fidgets with his tie and avoids eye contact during a conversation. This behavior suggests he might be anxious or uncomfortable in social situations. Likewise, a character who enters a room confidently, greeting everyone with a smile, demonstrates openness and approachability. Readers can gauge the character’s personality based on these observable actions.
Dialogue and Speaking Style
Dialogue is another essential aspect of external characterization. The way a character speaks—word choice, tone, and speech patterns—provides insights into their background, personality, and emotional state.
For example, a character who uses slang and speaks rapidly may come across as youthful and energetic. In contrast, a character who carefully enunciates and uses complex vocabulary might suggest intelligence or formality.
Consider a character named Anna who speaks in short, clipped sentences. This description might indicate that she’s direct and no-nonsense. Conversely, a character named Oliver, who constantly fills his speech with humor and exclamations, might be viewed as charming and sociable. These nuances in speech help shape readers’ perceptions.
Age and Maturity Level
A character’s age can significantly influence their external characterization. Younger characters may demonstrate naivety or excitement, while older characters may embody wisdom or stubbornness.
For instance, a teenager named Jake might skateboard everywhere, embodying a carefree spirit. In contrast, an older character like Mr. Thompson, who walks with a cane and has a collection of old vinyl records, may evoke a sense of nostalgia or authority.
Setting and Context
The environment surrounding a character can also offer clues to their external characterization. How they interact with their setting can enhance the reader’s understanding. A character living in a cluttered, chaotic home may reflect inner turmoil. Meanwhile, one residing in an immaculate space might portray a sense of control or perfectionism.
Take a character named Clara, who has a cozy bookshelf filled with well-worn novels and vintage knick-knacks. This setting not only paints a picture of her personality as a book lover but also emphasizes her warmth and hominess.
Relationships with Other Characters
The way a character interacts with others is a crucial aspect of external characterization. These interactions can highlight their social skills, emotional intelligence, or lack thereof.
For example, consider a character named Ethan, whose friends and laughter always surround him. His external characterization reflects someone enjoyable and easy to be around. Conversely, a character like Jessica, who is often isolated and avoids eye contact, might be characterized as shy or introverted. The dynamic between characters adds depth to external characterization.
Body Language and Non-Verbal Cues
Body language plays an enormous role in external characterization. Characters communicate a wide range of emotions and attitudes without speaking.
A character who crosses their arms and avoids facing the group might be interpreted as closed off or defensive. On the other hand, a character who maintains an open stance and frequently gestures while speaking may be viewed as confident and engaging. For example, imagine a character named Leo who stands tall with an inviting smile. His posture suggests approachability and warmth, making it easy for readers to connect with him.
Techniques for Effective External Characterization
Creating memorable and relatable characters requires various techniques for external characterization.
1. Show, Don’t Tell
Instead of explicitly stating a character’s traits, authors can portray them through actions and observations. This technique encourages readers to draw their conclusions, allowing for a more engaging reading experience.
Example: Instead of writing, “Sophia was generous,” an author can illustrate this by depicting Sophia bringing in bags of groceries for a neighbor, offering to babysit, and volunteering her time for community service. Readers recognize her generous nature through her actions without needing an explicit declaration.
2. Use Contrasting Characters
Contrasting characters can highlight specific traits through comparison. When two characters exhibit opposing characteristics, it becomes clearer what defines them.
Example: In a story, a meticulous planner named Alex could embody organization while his messy, spontaneous friend Charlie revels in chaos. Their differing approaches to life not only highlight their traits but also set up an interesting dynamic that can drive the narrative forward.
3. Cultural Context and Setting
Characterization doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it’s often influenced by cultural background and settings. When authors incorporate elements from a character’s cultural context, it adds depth and authenticity.
Example: A character named Priya, who hails from a traditional Indian family, may wear a sari to formal events, speak Hindi with her grandmother, and apply henna for celebrations. These external factors not only enrich her characterization but also provide readers insight into her cultural identity.
Analyzing External Characterization in Literature
Understanding external characterization can be greatly enhanced by examining well-crafted examples from classic and contemporary literature.
Classic Literature
Jane Austen shapes Elizabeth Bennet in “Pride and Prejudice” not just through her wit and intelligence but also through her lively physical mannerisms and her fashion choices that reflect her social class. Austen’s meticulous attention to Elizabeth’s appearance and actions creates a multidimensional character who resonates with readers.
Contemporary Literature
Angie Thomas portrays Starr Carter’s character vividly in “The Hate U Give” through her contrasting experiences in her predominantly white school and her home in a poor African American neighborhood. The way she dresses, the dialect she uses, and her interactions with both communities serve to define her identity and struggles. Readers are able to feel the weight of her duality—how she maneuvers through these contrasting worlds adds depth to her character.
Practical Exercises in External Characterization
To hone skills in utilizing external characterization, writers can engage in several practical exercises.
1. Character Sketching
Choose a character you like. First, describe clearly how your character appears physically. Include exact details like hairstyle, clothes, and noticeable traits. Then, develop an action that reflects their personality and an example of dialogue that encapsulates their speech patterns.
2. Scene Writing
Write a short scene that showcases a character’s traits through their actions and interactions with other characters in a specific setting. Focus on how their physicality and dialogue reveal their personality without resorting to inner monologue.
3. Role Reversal
Take a well-known character and write a scene from their perspective while altering their physical traits, actions, or dialogue. Observe how these changes affect the character’s portrayal and the overall impression they create.
Additional Information
External characterization goes beyond physical traits and includes subtle details that can greatly enhance a character’s depth and relatability.
- Costume Choices: The clothes a character wears can reveal their socioeconomic status, personality, and even emotional state. A character’s fashion sense can set the mood before they even say a word.
- Body Language: Non-verbal cues expose feelings that words may hide. Notice movements like arms folded tight or fingers rapidly drumming a tabletop. These small signals can uncover a character’s real emotions. Pay attention to how a character moves and interacts with their environment to illuminate their inner world.
- Facial Expressions: A simple raise of an eyebrow or a smirk can define a character’s attitude towards others and situations. These micro-expressions can give readers a visual cue of what is not being said.
- Props and Objects: Items a character carries, such as a worn-out book or a vintage camera, can hint at backstory and personal history. These props often serve as extensions of the character’s personality.
- Physical Flaws: Scars, tattoos, or other imperfections add realism and complexity. They often have stories behind them that can enrich a character’s narrative.
- Gait and Movement: The way a character walks—confident strides versus shuffling feet—can indicate their mood and self-perception. A deliberate gait might suggest confidence, while a hurried walk might imply anxiety.
- Environmental Interactions: How a character interacts with their surroundings can provide insight into their personality. For instance, someone who meticulously organizes their desk may be more detail-oriented than a person with a chaotic workspace.
- Vocal Qualities: The tone, pitch, and volume at which a character speaks can convey much about their emotional state. A whisper can imply shyness, while an enthusiastic shout may reveal passion or urgency.
- Physical Accessories: Jewelry, glasses, or even a distinctive hairstyle can be telling. A character’s choice of accessories might reflect their cultural background, beliefs, or personal style choices.
- Social Interactions: How a character connects with others—whether they’re extroverted and engaging or shy and reserved—can create a vivid picture of who they are on the surface. Social cues can communicate much without dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to External Characterization
Q. What is external characterization?
A. External characterization refers to how a character is presented through observable traits, such as physical appearance, clothing, actions, and mannerisms.
Q. Why is external characterization important in writing?
A. It helps readers visualize characters and understand their personalities and roles in the story without needing extensive backstory.
Q. How does a character’s appearance affect readers’ perceptions?
A. A character’s physical traits can set the tone for how readers feel about them. For example, a character described as unkempt might be perceived as chaotic or careless.
Q. Can external characterization influence a character’s development?
A. Yes, it can. Changes in a character’s appearance or behavior throughout the story can signal growth or change in their personality.
Q. Are clichés harmful in external characterization?
A. Yes, relying on clichés can make characters feel flat and unoriginal, which detracts from the depth of the story.
Q. How can clothing choices reveal a character’s personality?
A. A character’s outfit can indicate their social status, occupation, or emotional state, helping readers infer deeper traits.
Q. Should external characterization include subtle details?
A. Absolutely. These details can make the characters more relatable and memorable.
Q. How can external characterization be balanced with internal characterization?
A. Both should complement each other; a character’s actions and appearance should align with their thoughts and motivations to create a cohesive persona.
Q. Is it effective to use other characters’ views to describe someone externally?
A. Yes, showing how other characters perceive someone can add layers to the external characterization and create tension or contrast.
Q. How do cultural influences shape external characterization?
A. Cultural background can significantly impact how characters are presented, influencing their clothing, style, and behaviors, which enriches the narrative.
Conclusion
External characterization is essential for bringing your characters to life. It allows readers to visualize your characters and understand their personalities and motivations more deeply. By focusing on physical traits, clothing, and behavioral cues, you create memorable and relatable characters that resonate with your audience. Remember, a well-crafted character can be the difference between a good story and a great one. So, keep these techniques in mind as you write, and watch your characters step off the page and into the hearts of your readers.
