Direct Characterisation: GCSE English Definition

What is direct characterisation?

In GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature, direct characterisation is when a writer explicitly describes a character's traits, personality or appearance. This means the writer tells the reader about the character, rather than showing it through their actions, speech or thoughts.

Why do writers use direct characterisation?

Writers use direct characterisation for several reasons. It can quickly provide essential details about a character, it can help set the scene or introduce new characters efficiently and smoothly. Direct characterisation can also help writers highlight important aspects of a character's personality or appearance that they want the reader to focus on, meaning that they can directly shape the reader's perception of a character without relying on interpretation.

Example of direct characterisation

Here is an example of direct characterisation from John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men:

"...a huge man, shapeless of face, with large, pale eyes, and wide, sloping shoulders; he walked heavily, dragging his feet a little"

Here, Steinbeck is describing the character of Lennie using his physical appearance and movements, making it clear that he is a large, heavy-set and somewhat animal-like man. This helps the reader form a first impression of Lennie.

Revision resources to ace your exams

Learn how to explore a writer's use of direct characterisation, and how to use it in your own creative writing, by using our detailed GCSE revision notes.

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes

GCSE English Language Revision Notes

For more literary techniques, check out our list of 127 top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.