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Title Image: Preparation Activities

Character Analysis Sheet

One method of studying a play is examining characters—their traits, motives, and style of speech. In drama, character traits emerge via dialogue and actions rather than description. The character analysis sheet allows you to develop from evidence a detailed profile of a selected character. You may choose one of the following characters: Claudius, Gertrude, Hamlet, Ophelia or Polonius.

As you read each act, list your character’s key actions and lines below. Also note what other characters say about your character. You need not copy entire exchanges; instead, quote significant phrases and cite the scene and line numbers. When you finish reading, look over your notes and ask yourself a basic question: What do I know about this character and how do I know it? List your character’s traits and motives in the chart, explaining how the actions and dialogue you’ve noted provide evidence of the traits and motives you’ve identified. In the final section of the chart, speculate on your character’s physical appearance, costuming, and style of speech.

Character:

 

ACT 1

ACT 2

ACT 3

ACT 4

ACT 5

Actions/Words

Actions

 

 

 

 

 

Key dialogue

 

 

 

 

 

Other characters’ descriptions of your selected character

 

 

 

 

 
Traits

Character traits

 

 

 

 

 

Explanation of how actions and words illustrate traits

 

 

 

 

 
Motives

Motivation for actions—why does your character act as he/she does? What does he/she want?

 

 

 

 

 

Explanation of how character’s words and other characters’ assessments suggest motivation (note that other characters’ judgments are not necessarily reliable)

 

 

 

 

 
Appearance

Physical characteristics

 

 

 

 

 

Costume

 

 

 

 

 

Style of speech

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page Last Updated 6/22/08
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