Character文学原理教程.PPT

Analyzing Character Who is the protagonist of the work and who ( or what ) is the antagonist? Describe the major traits and qualities of each. What is the function of the work’s minor characters? 3. Identify the characters in terms of whether they are flat or round, dynamic or static. 4. What methods does the author employ to establish and reveal the characters? Are the methods primarily of showing or telling? 5. Are the actions of the characters properly motivated and consistent? 6. Are the characters of the work finally credible and interesting? Character Characterization Kinds of Character Roles in the Novel 1. Hero / Heroine 主角 ---- The chief / central character of a literary work Hero / Heroine Carrying Connotation Protagonist 主人公 Sounding Neutral Protagonist Antagonist 反面角色，对立面 ---- The rival or opponent against whom the protagonist / hero is contending. 2. Main / Major Character ---- One in close and dynamic relation with the hero / heroine. (Close relation does not necessarily mean good relation.) 3. Minor Character ---- One in remote and static relation with the hero. (Not all minor characters are unimportant.) 4. Foil (Character) 陪衬 ---- One that helps enhance the intensity of the hero by strengthening or contrasting. Degrees of Development Round Character 圆形人物 ---- The complex multidimensional character with the capacity to grow and change. Round Characterization A character who is complex and has many sides or traits with unpredictable behavior and a fully developed personality. Antagonists are usually a round characterization. Example: Like The Green Goblin (Norman Osborn) 另一类圆活人物，则企图表现人心的复杂多变，一如动态的塑造，不但免除僵化，令人厌烦之病，而且可以是应任何情节的应球，令人有新奇变化之感，甚至角色在小说中成长，有自主能力去改变结局似的，比方说红楼梦中的宝玉，在裙钗中翻滚，在大官园中流连，爱恨迭起，悲喜无常，最后以出家勘破，作为回归太虚的醒悟之途。 ① Complex in temperament and motivation