Character Goals

Definition

Character goals refer to the specific desires or ambitions that drive a character's actions and decisions throughout a story. These goals are crucial for creating depth and relatability in characters, as they reflect the character's motivations and help to shape their personality and journey. Understanding character goals is essential for crafting compelling narratives where audiences can connect with the characters' struggles and aspirations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Character goals often fall into two categories: external goals, which are tangible achievements like winning a competition, and internal goals, such as seeking acceptance or personal growth.
2. Relatable characters typically have clear goals that audiences can understand, making them easier to empathize with during their journeys.
3. Goals can evolve throughout a story, reflecting a character's development and the lessons they learn along the way.
4. The pursuit of character goals is often central to the plot; the challenges and obstacles they face highlight their determination and resilience.
5. A well-defined character goal not only drives individual character development but also serves as a catalyst for overall story progression.

Review Questions

• How do character goals contribute to the relatability of characters in a narrative?
  • Character goals enhance relatability by allowing audiences to connect with the characters' desires and struggles. When viewers understand what a character wants and why it matters to them, it creates an emotional bond. This connection encourages viewers to invest in the character’s journey, making their successes and failures feel significant.
• Discuss the relationship between character goals and conflict within a story. How does this interaction influence plot development?
  • Character goals are often at odds with various forms of conflict, whether internal or external. As characters strive to achieve their goals, they encounter obstacles that create tension and propel the plot forward. This interaction keeps audiences engaged, as they become invested in how characters navigate these challenges and evolve as a result.
• Evaluate how understanding character goals can improve your writing process when developing memorable characters.
  • Understanding character goals allows you to create more layered and dynamic characters. By defining what each character wants and why, you can craft their arcs more thoughtfully, ensuring they undergo meaningful transformations. This depth not only enhances individual character engagement but also enriches your storytelling overall, leading to more impactful narratives that resonate with your audience.

Related terms

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character as they experience growth or change in response to the events of the story.

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces that creates tension and drives the plot forward, often arising from a character's goals clashing with obstacles.

Motivation: The underlying reasons that propel a character to pursue their goals, which can be influenced by personal desires, fears, or external circumstances.