Speech:
* Word choice: Characters' vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall tone can reveal their intelligence, education level, social background, emotional state, and even their values.
* Example: A character who uses a lot of slang might be from a specific region or social group. A character with a sophisticated vocabulary might be highly educated or trying to impress someone.
* What they talk about: The topics characters choose to discuss, their opinions on those topics, and how they express themselves all provide insight into their personalities.
* Example: A character who constantly complains about their job might be unhappy or unmotivated. A character who talks about their hobbies with passion reveals a key aspect of their personality.
* How they interact with others: Dialogue can reveal how characters relate to each other, their power dynamics, and their communication styles.
* Example: A character who interrupts others frequently might be assertive or even rude. A character who listens attentively and asks thoughtful questions might be considerate and empathetic.
Action:
* Actions speak louder than words: What characters do, particularly when they're not aware they're being observed, is a powerful indicator of who they are.
* Example: A character who anonymously donates to charity is likely generous and compassionate, even if they don't brag about it. A character who steals might be desperate or lacking in moral compass.
* Habits and routines: The things characters do on a daily basis reveal their priorities, values, and lifestyle.
* Example: A character who spends hours at the gym every day might be health-conscious or driven by a need to control their appearance. A character who reads voraciously could be intellectual or seeking escape from reality.
* Reactions to challenges: How characters handle difficult situations or stressful events shows their resilience, their coping mechanisms, and their true nature.
* Example: A character who crumbles under pressure might be insecure or lacking in confidence. A character who perseveres in the face of adversity demonstrates strength and determination.
Examples:
* Hamlet: Hamlet's famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy reveals his internal conflict, his existential angst, and his contemplative nature. His actions, such as delaying revenge and feigned madness, reveal his indecisiveness and his desire to be certain.
* Hermione Granger: Hermione's vast knowledge, her eagerness to help others, and her unwavering loyalty are revealed through her dialogue and her willingness to break rules for what she believes is right.
* Darth Vader: Darth Vader's deep voice, his menacing pronouncements, and his relentless pursuit of power reveal his dark side. His actions, such as his choking of an officer in "Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope," demonstrate his ruthlessness and his disregard for human life.
In short, every word a character speaks and every action they take contributes to building a complex and nuanced portrait of their personality.