Character Bible

Definition

A character bible is a detailed document that outlines the essential traits, backstories, and development arcs of the characters within a television series. This resource serves as a reference to maintain consistency in character voice and behavior throughout the show, ensuring that each character remains true to their established identity as the story progresses.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A character bible typically includes information such as age, appearance, occupation, family background, relationships, and significant life events that shape the character's motivations.
2. It serves as a guideline for writers to ensure characters do not act out of character and helps maintain their voice and consistency across episodes.
3. Character bibles can also include specific details like catchphrases, quirks, and fears that define how a character reacts in various situations.
4. Creating a character bible can aid in developing subplots by showing how individual characters relate to the main storyline and each other.
5. Writers often update character bibles as the series progresses to reflect changes in character development or shifts in storyline direction.

Review Questions

• How does a character bible contribute to maintaining a consistent voice for each character in a television series?
  • A character bible contributes to maintaining a consistent voice by providing detailed descriptions of each character's traits, backgrounds, and behavioral patterns. By having this information readily available, writers can ensure that the dialogue and actions remain true to each character's established identity. This prevents characters from behaving inconsistently across episodes, helping to build audience trust and engagement.
• In what ways can a character bible assist writers in developing subplots within a television series?
  • A character bible assists writers in developing subplots by offering insights into how individual characters relate to the main plot and to each other. It provides context for their motivations and decisions, allowing writers to create meaningful interactions that align with the characters' established identities. By referencing the character bible, writers can craft subplots that enhance the overall narrative while staying true to each character's journey.
• Evaluate the impact of an updated character bible on the evolution of characters throughout a series. What are the implications for storytelling?
  • An updated character bible significantly impacts character evolution by reflecting growth or changes influenced by plot developments. As characters encounter new challenges or relationships, updating their profiles allows writers to explore deeper emotional arcs and complexities. This enhances storytelling by creating richer narratives where audience members can witness authentic development, ensuring that characters remain relatable and engaging while staying consistent with their established traits.

Related terms

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, showing how they grow or change in response to experiences.

Character Profile: A detailed description of a character’s physical attributes, personality traits, motivations, and relationships with other characters.

Voice Consistency: The ability to maintain a character's distinct manner of speaking and behavioral patterns throughout a narrative, reflecting their unique identity.