Modernist Literature & Characterization:
* Focus on the Individual: Modernist writers were often concerned with exploring the inner world of the individual. This led to a focus on psychological realism and stream-of-consciousness techniques, which delve into the complex thoughts, feelings, and motivations of characters.
* Challenging Traditional Characterization: Modernist writers questioned the traditional notion of well-rounded, consistent characters. They often portrayed individuals as fragmented, contradictory, and deeply affected by the anxieties and alienation of modern life.
* Emphasis on Subjectivity: The reader's understanding of a character was often shaped by their own internal perspective, rather than through clear-cut descriptions or actions. This subjectivity contributed to a sense of ambiguity and complexity in characterization.
Examples:
* James Joyce's "Ulysses": Leopold Bloom's thoughts and experiences are presented in a fragmented and subjective way, revealing his inner conflicts and the complexities of his everyday life.
* Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway": Clarissa Dalloway's consciousness is portrayed through stream-of-consciousness narration, allowing readers to access her internal thoughts and feelings.
* Franz Kafka's "The Metamorphosis": Gregor Samsa's transformation into an insect is not just a physical change, but also a metaphorical exploration of alienation and the absurdity of modern life.
Important Considerations:
* Not a Monolithic Approach: Modernism was a diverse movement, and not all writers adhered to the same principles. Some emphasized more traditional characterization, while others explored entirely new ways of representing characters.
* Evolution of Characterization: While Modernist writers challenged traditional characterization, they also laid the groundwork for further experimentation with character in later literary movements like Postmodernism.
In conclusion, Modernist writers often employed unconventional characterization techniques to explore the inner lives of individuals and the complexities of modern existence. This focus on psychological realism, subjectivity, and fragmentation marked a shift from traditional characterization methods and paved the way for new approaches to character in literature.