Character

Definition

A character is an individual who plays a role in a story, possessing unique traits, motivations, and development arcs. Characters drive the narrative forward and evoke emotional responses from the audience, making them essential to effective storytelling. Their relationships and conflicts with other characters create tension and propel the plot, ultimately leading to the resolution of the story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Characters can be classified as main or secondary, with main characters usually receiving more development and focus in the storyline.
2. Every character typically has a backstory that influences their motivations and actions within the narrative.
3. Characters often embody specific archetypes, such as the hero, mentor, or trickster, which can help audiences relate to them more easily.
4. Conflict between characters can take many forms, including internal struggles within a character and external conflicts with other characters or forces.
5. Well-developed characters are often relatable and complex, making their journeys more engaging for the audience.

Review Questions

• How do characters contribute to building tension in a story?
  • Characters contribute to building tension by engaging in conflicts and challenges that test their motivations and desires. When characters have clear goals but face obstacles—whether from other characters, their own internal struggles, or external circumstances—it creates a sense of suspense. The audience becomes invested in whether these characters will succeed or fail, which drives the emotional impact of the narrative.
• In what ways can character arcs enhance the overall narrative of a story?
  • Character arcs enhance the overall narrative by providing depth and transformation to the characters. A well-crafted arc shows how a character evolves in response to events in the story, allowing audiences to experience growth alongside them. This journey can reveal themes of redemption, personal sacrifice, or self-discovery, making the narrative richer and more relatable for viewers.
• Evaluate how differing character types (protagonists vs. antagonists) influence audience engagement in storytelling.
  • Differing character types like protagonists and antagonists significantly influence audience engagement by establishing clear stakes and emotional investment in the outcome. Protagonists often embody qualities that audiences admire or relate to, while antagonists present challenges that must be overcome. The dynamic between these character types creates conflict that keeps viewers interested in how the story unfolds and whether the protagonist can triumph over adversity, which enhances the overall storytelling experience.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story, often facing challenges and undergoing significant personal growth throughout the narrative.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and obstacles that must be overcome for the story to progress.

Character Arc: The transformation or journey a character undergoes throughout the story, reflecting their growth or decline based on experiences and choices.