How does the use of dialogue contribute to characterization?

Dialogue plays a crucial role in characterization by revealing personality traits and the nature of relationships among characters. Through their speech patterns, word choices, and the topics they choose to discuss, characters can express their values, emotions, and social dynamics. For instance, a character who speaks in a formal tone may suggest education or authority, while another who uses slang may imply youth or rebellion. Additionally, interactions between characters can shed light on their relationships: a supportive dialogue can indicate friendship, while tense exchanges can hint at conflict or rivalry. This depth provided by dialogue allows readers to understand the characters more fully and facilitates a deeper connection with the narrative.

The other options do not capture the nuanced role of dialogue in revealing character. Summarizing characters' roles does not delve into their complexities; character descriptions alone can be superficial without the insight offered through dialogue. While dialogue does advance the plot, its primary importance lies in its ability to flesh out characters and their relationships, making option B the most accurate choice.