Characterization

Characterization:

Characterization is a method that an author uses in order to convey information about characters. This is done so by: 1. Describing the characters physical appearance 2. Describing the characters actions 3. Describing the characters thoughts (1st person/3rd person limited) 4. Including quotes from the character 5. Describing the characters reactions.

Examples in Heat and Dust: “He worked like a Trojan and never ceased to be calm and controlled, so that he was very much esteemed both by his colleagues and by the Indians. He was upright and just.” (1)

In this example, the author characterizes Douglas by describing his physical appearance, describing his reactions and how others react to him. This is an example of strong characterization because after just two sentences, we already have a feeling about who Douglas is. He is a hard worker, and has a very upright, stoic nature. The inclusion of “esteemed both by his colleagues and by the Indians” reveals that he is a generally respectable man and seems to fit “the perfect man” mould. We do not get the feeling that he is extremely passionate, but instead a conservative, nice, good-natured man.

“He’s a very strong person. Very manly and strong. When he wants something, nothing must stand in his way. Never; ever.” (34)

In this example, Jhabvala characterizes both the Nawab and Harry through physical description, reactions and feelings. In the literal sense, it reveals that the Nawab is extremely strong both emotionally and physically. It also implies that the Nawab is a very manipulative character, and has a lot of power over people. The quote also indirectly characterizes Harry, who is saying this to Olivia. The repetition of the word strong indicates that the Nawab has a very strong hold on Harry. This is further exemplified through mentioning that “never” will anything get in the Nawab’s way.