Writing a Character Analysis

Characters to Choose from:RomeoJulietNurseFriar LaurenceMercutioBenvolioLady CapuletParisTybalt

What is a character analysis?

A character analysis is a representation of a character especially of peculiar, eccentric, or strongly marked individuality

A Successful Character Sketch

Correctly identify 3 adjectives to describe that person

Paints a vivid picture of the personality and physical appearance of the person

Places the character in the context of the play States your main impression of this person Uses the definition of characterization to describe

this character: Including dialogue, mannerisms, description, and other devices that show rather than tell what the character is like

Writing a Hook

What do you think would be an interesting hook to start a character sketch?

Quote from character – one that is not going to be used again in your essay.

Physical description Anecdote Statement about characterization

Introduction

Hook Lead-in - Give an overview of your character:

identify him, status, physical description, personality and identify the conflicts that surround this person

What is the character’s purpose in the play? Thesis: Lord Capulet is a commanding,

powerful, controlling character who alienates his daughter Juliet in his quest for a perfect match.

Body Paragraph 2 Use the character’s own WORDS to explain how

Shakespeare characterized this person

Example:

Juliet’s father is a commanding and authoritative character, especially towards his daughter. When Juliet politely refuses to marry Paris, he demands, “But fettle your fine join ‘gainst Thursday next, To go with Paris to saint Peter’s Church, or I will drag thee on a hurdle thither” (3.5). This is a dramatic shift from Act I, where Capulet initially rejects Paris’ suit, advising, “ “Let two more summers wither in their pride”, and adds for good measure that Paris should “woo her” and “get her heart” (I,2). Yet it does not matter if Capulet changes his mind on a whim. In this patriarchal society, the father controls the land, money and actions of his family members. Perhaps if he was not so demanding, Juliet would have confided in him about her feelings for Romeo.

Body Paragraph #3

Provide an explanation of Shakespeare’s characterization through the characters own ACTIONS with details, examples, and quotes to support.

Example:Lord Capulet also demonstrates through his own actions that he is a character who is powerful and forceful. In Act III he even makes the decision that Juliet will marry Paris without consulting her first. He brags to Paris, “Sir, I’ll make a rash offer of my daughter’s love. I think she’ll obey me in everything” (3.4). Even though Shakespeare has not given the reader specific stage directions, it is still evident that he is boasting of his power over his daughter – even admitting that he has not given this change of heart any real consideration.

Body Paragraph #4

Provide an explanation of Shakespeare’s characterization through other characters’ thoughts and actions

Example:Shakespeare continues to make it clear through other characters’ words that Lord Capulet is a character who is controlling and overreacts when defied. Even the staff make note of his overbearing attitude and comment on it. When Juliet refuses to marry Paris, her father becomes enraged and threatens to disown her. It is the Nurse who comes to her defense, responding, “You are to blame, my lord to rate her so” (3.5). Analysis

Conclusion

How is the audience supposed to feel about this character? Ex: Is she humorous? A source of drama? The

voice of reason? The decision-maker? How do you feel about this character?

Your thoughts on this character