1. Introduction: (Completed in class 10/29)
Characters are a major part of the story, they all have their own unique personality. For example, Leanora is a caring and altruistic young girl; however, the KKK singles her out because she is African American. Compelling characters such as Leanora add depth and interest to any story. In order to achieve this, Hesse uses various methods of characterization to reveal the personality and perspective of Leanora.
2. First body paragraph: (Completed in class 10/25)
Through her reactions, Hesse conveys the idea that Leanora Sutter is scared and alone. In this passage from Witness, Leanora Sutter, the only African American girl in town, is explaining that she feels scared and alone when she sees the fiery cross of the KKK from her bedroom window. “In that dark narrow place, I opened a hole for myself but no matter how I turned, the light from the cross curled its bright claws under the door (55).” Leanora’s reaction indicates that she feels the racism of the klan and is hiding from the cross that represents this.
3. Second body paragraph: (Completed with a partner, or as homework)
4. Third body paragraph: (Completed as homework or as a group in 5th period)
One of the most revealing methods used by the author to create the character of Leanora is the access Karen Hesse gives the reader to the girl’s thoughts. Leanora is a forgiving and understanding character, and this sets her apart from the other characters in the story. For example, “I told my story to Constable Johnson, and told it again inside the courtroom.” Leanora came forward and cleared Merlin’s name, even though he was cruel to her. She understood enough to realize that he shouldn’t be blamed for her suffering.
5. Conclusion: (Done together as a class 10/29)
The characters in Witness are the heart of the book. Through her skills as a writer, Hesse makes them believable and captivating. Of all the characters in Witness, Leanora is one of the most endearing. Her actions, thoughts, and dialogue hook the reader and keep us on the line until we reach the end of the story.