Direct Characterization

"Five feet seven or eight with a wiry build"

Chapter 1, Page 4.

"Smallish with the hard, stringy physique of an itinerant laborer."

"He had the kind of sensitive good looks that women made a fuss over."

Chapter 3, Page 16.

"He was what you'd call extremely ethical. He set pretty high standards for himself."

Chapter 3, Page 18.

Indirect Characterization

Gallien kept trying to convince him not to go into the bush because it was too dangerous and he didn't have the right supplies, but he wouldn't give in. This shows that he is stubborn and won't listen to what anyone has to tell him.

Chapter 1, Page 6.

Gallien asked him if he had a hunting license, and he said no but he didn't care about the rules. This shows that he does not have respect for authority.

Chapter 1, Page 6.

"He could talk for hours. A lot of folks here in town got pretty attached to old Alex." This shows that he is likable and pleasant.

Chapter 3, Page 16.

Westerberg wanted to take McCandless under his wing because of his "vulnerability."

Chapter 3, Page 16.

"And he never quit in the middle of something. If he started a job, he'd finish it." This shows that he is very determined and hardworking.

Chapter 3, Page 18.

He told his parents that he would not give or receive any gifts. This shows that he did not like material things and he thought that other things were much more important.

Chapter 3, Page 20.