A post on Industrial Scripts offers advice on writing indirect characterization, when a character’s traits are shown, rather than told through narration or dialogue. “The reader or audience must infer the character’s traits through thoughts, actions, appearance, interactions, and mannerisms,” the article explains.
Methods of indirect characterization include both dialogue and action. The way your character speaks, the words they choose, and how they move and interact with people and objects can communicate a lot about their personalities. And contrast is key. “What is specific about how they would react to a situation compared to the other characters?” the article says. “This is what will reveal who they are as compared to those they share the world with.”
Setting can also reveal character, as someone may behave differently depending on their surroundings. People behave differently in a church or a playground, and whether the person is religious will further amend their conduct.
The article also shares some tips on using indirect characterization, including:
- Finding a balance between direct and indirect, and use direct characterization for the most important details.
- Use the narrator – if you have one – to provide perspective.
- Highlight the importance of a character trait by showing it in action.
- Be consistent.
- Use changes in characterization to show character development.
