English 9 / Unit 2: Characterization and Point of View
2.2 Character Types
Notes
Characters can be classified by their role and by how they change.
- Protagonist: the main character, at the center of the conflict.
- Antagonist: the force or character opposing the protagonist.
- Round character: complex, with many traits. Flat character: one or two traits.
- Dynamic character: changes in an important way. Static character: stays the same.
- Foil: a character whose contrast highlights another character's traits.
- Example: A selfish girl who learns to share by the end is dynamic.
Practice
At the start of a story, Omar refuses to help anyone. By the end, he volunteers at a shelter. Omar is a:
He changes in an important way.
A calm, careful detective works with a reckless, impulsive partner. The partner mainly serves as a:
The contrast highlights the detective's calm nature.
Which statement is accurate?
The antagonist is whatever opposes the protagonist.
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