Character Objectives

Definition

Character objectives are the goals or desires that drive a character's actions and decisions within a narrative. They are essential for developing scenarios and characters, as they create motivation and conflict, guiding the storyline and revealing deeper aspects of the character's personality. Understanding character objectives helps in crafting believable interactions and enhances the emotional impact of the performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Character objectives can be external, like achieving a goal, or internal, such as seeking acceptance or self-discovery.
2. They play a crucial role in establishing the stakes of a narrative, determining what characters are willing to risk to achieve their goals.
3. Characters may have conflicting objectives with other characters, leading to rich storytelling and compelling drama.
4. Understanding a character's objectives helps actors portray their roles more authentically by embodying the character’s motivations.
5. Character objectives can evolve over time, reflecting changes in the character's circumstances, relationships, or self-awareness.

Review Questions

• How do character objectives contribute to the development of conflict within a narrative?
  • Character objectives are central to creating conflict in a narrative because when characters pursue different goals, their interests clash. This tension arises from competing desires and leads to obstacles that must be navigated. As characters strive to achieve their objectives, the resulting conflict drives the plot forward and engages the audience, making it essential for effective storytelling.
• In what ways can understanding character objectives enhance an actor's performance?
  • When actors grasp their character's objectives, they can make informed choices about how to express emotions and reactions on stage. This understanding allows them to portray authentic motivations, leading to more dynamic interactions with other characters. By connecting with their character's goals, actors can create a more compelling performance that resonates with audiences and conveys deeper layers of meaning.
• Evaluate how a character's evolving objectives throughout a story can impact their character arc and overall narrative structure.
  • A character's evolving objectives significantly influence their character arc and the narrative structure by showcasing growth and change. As characters face challenges and confront obstacles in pursuing their goals, they may reassess what is truly important to them. This evolution not only enriches their development but also affects the overall plot by introducing new dynamics and resolutions, ultimately leading to a more satisfying conclusion for both the character and the audience.

Related terms

Motivation: The underlying reasons or needs that compel a character to pursue their objectives, shaping their behavior and choices throughout the narrative.

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces, often arising from differing character objectives, which drives the plot and creates tension in a story.

Character Arc: The transformation or journey a character undergoes throughout a narrative, often influenced by their objectives and the obstacles they face.