This study investigates the role of portrait descriptions in literature and how they affect character development, thematic depth, and narrative structure. The findings show that portrait descriptions are more than just ornamental elements; they are also important instruments for expressing psychological depth, social rank, and greater narrative significance. Portrait descriptions in works by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Leo Tolstoy, Oscar Wilde, and Charlotte Brontë provide psychological insights, social background, and symbolic representation. The findings lend support to Forster's (1927) idea of "flat" and "round" characters, highlighting the importance of comprehensive portrait descriptions in the creation of rich, multidimensional characters.

Future research could look into the importance of portrait descriptions in contemporary literature and digital storytelling, specifically the interaction of visual and textual aspects.

Portrait descriptions, character development, psychological depth

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Johnson, M. (2015). The Art of Character: Writing Memorable Characters for Fiction, Film, and TV. Penguin Books.

Smith, J. (2001). Portraits and Personas: The Role of Description in Literature. Oxford University Press.

Tolstoy, L. (1877). Anna Karenina (R. Pevear & L. Volokhonsky, Trans.). Penguin Classics.

Wilde, O. (1890). The Picture of Dorian Gray. Ward, Lock & Co.