Read this passage from “in another country.” in what way is hemingway using characterization to describe the major? the major came very regularly to the hospital. i do not think he ever missed a day, although i am sure he did not believe in the machines. there was a time when none of us believed in the machines, and one day the major said it was all nonsense. the machines were new then and it was we who were to prove them. it was an idiotic idea, he said, "a theory like another". indirect characterization – the major is relating his own thoughts to the reader indirect characterization – the narrator is relating the major’s thoughts, words, and actions. direct characterization – the author is giving a description of the major’s physical and mental qualities. direct characterization – the narrator is relating the major’s thoughts and feelings.