Characterization In Speak By Laurie Halse Anderson

In the book Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, characterization, setting and plot all assist in the theme. The theme is you need to speak up in order to help yourself. Anderson uses characterization to elevate the theme. Melinda is immature, which make her problem even worse. For example, Melinda acknowledges, “I almost tell them right then and there [about the rape]” (Anderson 72). Melinda foolishly tries not to tell anyone about her rape. Eventually, she learns that telling someone about the rape is doing her good and not harm, which is what the theme implies. In the same fashion,the setting is used to enhance the theme of the story. Melinda views the art room as her safe place. When her art teacher finds her crying and asks what is wrong, Melinda