Make an outline of the character you will analyze. Note the character's background, ethics and main qualities. For example, if a character grew up in a large city, with little supervision and an elite background, note how those circumstances have affected the character's viewpoint and actions.
Search for repeated descriptions or reactions to a character to build onto his background. Ask yourself if other characters respond to this character in similar ways. For example, other characters may laugh easily every time this character enters a room. This circumstance suggests the character is comical or makes others uncomfortable.
Assess the character's actions, keeping in mind his circumstances and the time period of the play. For example, consider Romeo's actions throughout Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. Ask yourself why he would take such drastic steps to marry so quickly, take poison and die for love and honor. Consider how his actions reflect on his circumstances within a society of feuding families. Refrain from making judgments based on present day values.
Assess where the author of the play is coming from. Ask yourself, does the author want us to like this character? What is the author hoping we learn at the end of the play? What function does the character play in the larger plot? How does the character's actions affect the other characters? These questions will help you to unload some of the playwrights intentions in creating this character.
Write an essay based on Steps 1 through 4. Start by looking into the character's background and main personality traits, move on to how that character functions within the play's plot itself and conclude by reflecting on what the playwright hopes the audience will garner from the character.
Pull the reader into the paper by using a quote from the play or describing a memorable scene in which the character plays a substantial part.
Use correct grammar and avoid using contractions. Keep all of the sentences smooth and simple. Use topic sentences for each new paragraph or topic under discussion.