Character in Fiction

Main Characters Protagonist—the main character of a story. The action of the story revolves around the protagonist and the conflict he or she faces. Antagonist—the character or force the protagonist struggles against and must overcome. [End of Section]

Subordinate Characters Subordinate characters add depth and complication to the plot.

Flat Characters versus Round Characters Less developed Quick intro Fewer traits Shows how protagonist behaves Help carry action Make setting believable

Flat Characters versus Round Characters have many different character traits that sometimes contradict each other are much like real people, with several sides to their personality [End of Section]

Dynamic Characters versus Static Characters change or grow as a result of the story’s actions learn something about themselves, other people, or the world as they struggle to resolve their conflicts The changes that a dynamic character undergoes contribute to the meaning of the story.

Conflict External conflict—struggle between a character and an outside force. character versus character character versus society character versus nature

Conflict Internal conflict—struggle between opposing needs or desires or emotions within a character. character versus himself character versus herself

Ten (Direct or Indirect) Ways in which a Character Can Be Revealed a Ten (Direct or Indirect) Ways in which a Character Can Be Revealed a. By psychological description. b. By physical description. c. By probing what s/he thinks. d. By what s/he says. e. By how s/he says it. f. By what s/he does. g. By what others say about him or her. h. By his or her environment. i. By her reaction to others. j. By his reaction to himself.

Take the 4 past commentary papers and look for character traits in each case. Identify as many techniques as possible Analyse the effect of the various techniques