THE CHARACTER ESSAY

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THE CHARACTER ESSAY

In the earlier part of the 17th century the essay took the form of character sketches in the writings of Joseph Hall, John Earle and Thomas Overbury. They were inspired by the philosopher Theophrastus and the Roman Seneca. The early character essays were marked by minute details and were often presented in a humorous and satirical manner. Such essays were almost like pen-pictures of various types of men and women. Some of the essays of Thomas Browne and Abraham Cowley also may be included in this category. Some traits of the character essay can be seen even in Addison's essays on Sir Roger de Coverley.


TYPES OF CHARACTERS IN AN ESSAY:

  • The protagonist
  • The antagonist
  • Major characters
  • Minor characters
  • Dynamic characters
  • Static characters
  • Foils

How to Analyze a Character 

  • While preparing to analyze your character, make sure to read the story carefully. 
  • Pay attention to the situations where the character is involved, their dialogues, and their role in the plot. 
  • Make sure you include information about what your character achieves on a big scale and how they influence other characters. 
  • Despite the categories above, try thinking outside the box and explore your character from around. 
  • Avoid general statements and being too basic. Instead, focus on exploring the complexities and details of your character(s).

Character Analysis Questions:

Now that you have jotted down some main concepts about your character, here is a list of questions that can help you fill in the blanks you might still have:

  • Where do the events involving your character take place?
  • What are the relationships of your character and other significant characters?
  • What is the primary change your character has gone through throughout the story?
  • What is your character's background?
  • What is your character’s occupation?
  • What kind of emotions does your character go through?
  • What are your character’s values?
  • What is your character’s value?
  • Does your character have friends?
  • Is there a lesson your character has learned by the end of the story?
  • Does the character achieve the goals he/she has set for himself/herself?


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