The correct answer is A. When the author shows a character's traits through words and actions
Explanation:
In literary works such as novels, short stories or plays, the term "characterization" refers to the way the author shows the reader how a character is like and looks like. In the case of indirect characterization, the author avoids explicit description and instead uses the character's actions, thoughts and words to show the audience how the character is. For example, if the author describes one male character who hits the wall or breaks objects when he is angry, the author is using indirect characterization because he relies on the character's actions to show the character is violent. According to this, indirect characterization occurs "when the author shows a character's traits through words and actions".