My sister the serial killer

Words to discribe characters

What to include in a character analysis

Introduction

Write an introductory paragraph about the character and the role he or she plays in the novel.

What themes are present in the novel? What do you think the author is trying to communicate through this character?

Background

Include details about the personal history of the character and explain how that history affects their personality and development. If the author has provided little or no details on a character's past, you may have to make inferences based on what the author does provide.

• Where and when was the character born and raised?

• What is their level of education?

• What was their relationship with their parents like?

• Are there any memories or significant events that may have impacted what they do or say in the present day?

Personality

Examine whether the character acts more on emotions or reason. Use direct quotes to cite specific examples from the text to support your analysis. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Are they impulsive?

• What values are shown by their words and actions?

• What are their goals and ambitions? What are their fears?

• What is their level of self-confidence?

Physical appearance

Describe the physicality of your character and explain what their appearance might reveal about them as a person in general and in the context of the novel.

• Does the character have any prominent features?

• Are they short or tall? Are they physically fit?

• Do they wear fancy clothes?

• Do they walk with a quick or slow pace? With a limp?

Language

Analyze how the character speaks throughout the novel, noting any shifts in tone, word choice, or subject matter.

• Do they have particular speech patterns or accents?

• Do they speak soft or loud?

Relationships

Examine the relationships between your character and others.

• What is their social status? Are they a leader or a follower?

• Do they have close friends?

• How close are they to their family members?

• Do they speak or behave differently around others (or certain people)?

Growth

Explain how the character grows throughout the course of the novel. Note any conflicts or key events that may have led to their development.

• What brought about this character's development? Internal/external conflict(s)?

• Is the character better or worse at the conclusion?

Make sure to provide quotes and relevant evidence from the text to support your character analysis.