Bernadette

Bernadette’s outer characterisation in “What Anton Learns in the Queue” by Janis Freegard tells us that she has Down’s syndrome (l. 58), a genetic condition that typically causes some specific physical characteristics and some level of learning disability. Anton estimates that she looks about 20 years old but notices that it is hard to tell (l. 60). She is wearing a yellow sundress and carries a green vinyl handbag (l. 59).

Inner characterisation

Bernadette’s inner characterisation is constructed through the narrator’s comments and her dialogue with Anton.

Bernadette is depicted as friendly and joyful. As she joins the queue behind Anton, he immediately approaches him: “What’s your name? she asks with a radiant smile” (ll. 62-63). It is unclear whether Bernadette notices Anton being uncomfortable around her. Nonetheless, she ...