“How horrible it would be . . . if she were condemned to be the plain, shy Millicent of a few years back.”
Answer: it is an example of direct characterization. The character is described as plain and shy in a very straight-forward manner. The author TELLS us that.
“Betsy Johnson, the vivacious blonde secretary of the sorority”
Answer: it is an example of direct characterization. The character is described as being vivacious and blonde, straight to the point. Again, the author TELLS us that.
“Walking beside Louise on the way to the drugstore, Millicent felt a surge of pride.”
Answer: it is an example of indirect characterization. The character's feelings show us that he is proud of something. The author SHOWS US that.
“Bev was suddenly there in the doorway. ‘Wipe that smile off your face,’ she commanded.”
Answer: it is an example of indirect characterization. The character's speech shows us that she doesn't like it when people display joy around her. Again, the author SHOWS us that.
The difference between direct and indirect characterization is that the first TELLS us about the character, and the latter SHOWS us the character's traits by means of his/her speech, thoughts, feelings, effect on other characters, actions and appearance.
