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What’s the difference between character development and characterization?

Character development and characterization are two closely related concepts in fiction writing. However, there is a subtle difference between the two terms. Character development refers to the changes that a character undergoes over the course of a story. These physical, emotional, or psychological changes are all part of the character’s arc. For example, a character might start out as shy and timid, but by the end of the story, they might become more confident and outgoing.

How do you help your reader truly get to know each character in your story?

Meanwhile, characterization refers to the way that a writer reveals a character’s personality, motivations, and background. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as:

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Writing Basics

Characterization and exposition in fiction writing

Characterization is the process of using words on a page to transform a figure of the writer’s imagination into a living, breathing, whole person in the imagination of a reader.

Characterization meme
Characterization is the process of using words on a page to transform a figure of the writer’s imagination into a living, breathing, whole person in the imagination of a reader.

Exposition = Narrative Summary

In the context of characterization, exposition is a comprehensive explanation of a character, consisting of a list of physical attributes, historical background, psychological profile, or a combination of some or all of these elements. Continue reading “Characterization and exposition in fiction writing”