English 11B- Lesson 4

What is characterization?

the way an author reveals a character's traits

In "The Story of an Hour," how does the plot event of Brently Mallard's supposed death help develop the character of Mrs. Mallard?

It reveals that Mrs. Mallard felt oppressed in her marriage.

Read the passage from The Crucible, Act 1, Part 3. ABIGAIL (with hushed trepidation): How is Ruth sick? MERCY: It's weirdish, I know not—she seems to walk like a dead one since last night. ABIGAIL (turns at once and goes to Betty, and now, with fear in her voice): Betty? (Betty doesn't move. She shakes her.) Now stop this! Betty! Sit up now! (Betty doesn't stir. Mercy comes over.) MERCY: Have you tried beatin' her? I gave Ruth a good one and it waked her for a minute. Here, let me have her. What word best describes the character of Mercy as she is characterized in this passage?

violent