Tools of Characterization

Characterization in A Clockwork Orange

Clothing

You know your film is a classic when you can buy a Halloween costume based on one of its characters. Alex's droog clothing is iconic, and even if they didn't sell replicas of it at Party City, it would still be important.

Alex wears his underwear on the outside, like Quailman, signifying his sexual aggressiveness (and lack of fashion sense). Kubrick has a thing for eyes, so he frames one of Alex's eyes in mascara. And Alex carries a cane, all the better to beat someone with…or to stab them with the knife hidden in the handle.

As far as gang outfits go, it's almost comical. But anyone who doesn't take Alex seriously is in for a world of hurt.

Direct Characterization

As our "friend and humble narrator" we see the world through Alex's mascara'd eye. He sees himself as entitled to take whatever he wants, and he feels like a victim when he isn't allowed to.

He tells us, "I've suffered and I've suffered and I've suffered and everybody wants me to go on suffering," and that he's "a victim." He is trying to change our perception of his character through his words, but we must always remember to consider the source. Because the source is a sociopath.

Actions

This film is a prime example of actions speaking louder the words. Alex will call himself a victim, but never a criminal. He doesn't talk about the crimes he commits, but we see him do them. His actions stand in direct contrast to his characterization of himself.

However, the actions of other characters are important too, especially the actions of the writer. Just as Alex took glee in raping his wife and beating him, the writer too appears devilishly excited by driving Alex to suicide, showing us that the capacity for ultra-violence lies within everyone.