A particular criterion character effectively supports the central idea of ​​“Rip Van Winkle” by Washington Irving. The character's type evolves with personality development throughout the story. Three types of characters: round, flat and round, appear in most stories. The round character displays a fully developed personality and full emotions. Flat characters, also called supporting characters, do not fully develop or express complex emotions. A stock character, also known as a stereotype, is an established characterization from real life or literature. With these three character types guiding the reader through the story, the reader learns the events that take place as well as the changes in the character's life. The author keeps the reader informed of changes affecting the characters throughout the story through style. When a character undergoes a fundamental change in nature or personality over the course of the story, they have a dynamic style. However, a character without change defines a static character. Although all characters have a style and type, understanding the differences seems complicated at times. A painting often helps to better understand the type and style of the characters. The author uses one main character, at most two; only the protagonist and antagonist exist as main characters. “Rip Van Winkle,” Washington Irving uses a main character to play both the role of protagonist and antagonist. In paragraph three, lines six and seven, the reader meets the protagonist. “…a simple fellow by the name of Rip Van Winkle” In paragraphs five and nine, lines one and two, and one and four, respectively, the reader meets the antagonist. “The great error in Rip's composition was an insurmountable aversion to all kinds of work. "...Rip would rather starve on a penny than work for a pound." Although, in both instances where the reader meets Rip Van Winkle, Rip only counts as one main character. Characterization occurs when the author paints an overall picture of the characters. Characterization occurs in two ways in literature, through description and through personality. The author uses the words a story to describe a character or imply the appearance of the characters through the text of the story. Introducing the character's personality to the reader in words gives or describes the characters personality or the words used imply certain things about the character. The protagonist of "Rip Van Winkle" whom the reader first meets in paragraph three, lines seven and eight, "...a simple fellow by the name of Rip Van Winkle.