Which technique relies on what others say or think about the character?

• A. Through a character's actions, thoughts, and speech
• B. What others say or think about the character
• C. Statements that can be proven
• D. Direct comments from the author

Answer: (B)

Relying on what others say or think about a character shows indirect characterization through the perceptions of people around them. The writer reveals traits not by directly naming them, but by presenting others’ opinions, rumors, or judgments about the character. As a reader, you infer who the character is from these external voices and from how the character acts in response to them. This method can highlight how a character is viewed by society, expose biases, and build tension or themes, such as reputation or influence on decisions.

The other ways described involve traits shown directly by the character’s own actions, thoughts, or by the author’s explicit statements, which are different methods of characterization.