The author's way of creating characters for a story; including the process of conveying information about them.
It may be used in dramatic works of art or everyday conversation.
Characters may be presented through description, their actions, speech, or thoughts.
Jonas
The Latin form of Jonah, from the Hebrew, meaning “dove.”
The Old Testament tells the story of Jonah, to whom God gives the task of telling the people of Nineveh that because of their greed and selfishness, their city will be destroyed in forty days. Through a series of events, Jonah is swallowed by a whale, rescued, and goes on to deliver his message. The people ask for forgiveness and are saved from destruction.
In The Giver Jonas is the main character.
He is also charged with the task of bringing important news and perhaps “rescuing” his people.
Lily
Jonas's little sister
A flower and has long symbolized purity and innocence
Her childish innocence is contrasted with Jonas’s growing disillusionment.
7 years old
A chatterbox and does not know quite when to keep her mouth shut
Extremely practical and well-informed
Jonas's Father
Mild-mannered, tenderhearted Nurturer who works with infants.
Very sweet with his two children.
Enjoys his job and takes it very seriously, constantly trying to nurture children who will stay alive until the Ceremony of Names.
However, even if he is attached to a child, he will release it if that seems to be the best.
Jonas's Mother
A practical, pleasant woman with an important position at the Department of Justice.
Takes her work seriously, hoping to help people who break rules
Frequently gives Jonas advice about the worries and fears he faces as he grows up.
Gabriel
One of two archangels identified in the Old Testament. He is considered a prophetic messenger.
May be considered a prophet or messenger in this novel.
The newchild that Jonas’s family cares for at night
Sweet and adorable during the day, but has trouble sleeping at night
He and Jonas become very close
Asher
Another of Jonas’s friends
Has red hair, which only Jonas can see, and works as a Caretaker in the House of the Old
Mild-mannered and patient
Characters
The Giver
Jonas’s best friend
Fun-loving, hasty boy who usually speaks too fast and mixes up his words