Wants

Definition

In the context of character objectives, wants refer to the specific desires or motivations that drive a character's actions within a narrative. These wants can be both explicit and implicit, influencing how characters interact with one another and their surroundings. Understanding a character's wants is crucial for grasping their objectives and the overall arc of the story, as these desires often reveal deeper emotional layers and conflicts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wants can drive the plot forward by creating tension and conflict between characters as they pursue their individual desires.
2. Characters may have multiple wants at different levels, such as surface-level desires versus deeper emotional needs that complicate their choices.
3. Understanding a character's wants helps actors embody their roles more authentically by connecting with the character's motivations.
4. Wants can evolve throughout the story, reflecting character development and changing circumstances.
5. Identifying a character's primary want can reveal the underlying themes of the narrative and enhance the audience's engagement.

Review Questions

• How do wants shape a character’s actions and decisions throughout a story?
  • Wants are central to shaping a character's actions and decisions because they act as motivators driving every choice made on stage. When actors understand what their characters want, they can portray believable reactions and interactions with other characters. For instance, if a character desperately wants love, their choices will be influenced by this desire, leading to conflicts or alliances that serve that want. This dynamic creates a more engaging narrative that keeps audiences invested.
• In what ways can conflicting wants among characters create dramatic tension?
  • Conflicting wants among characters create dramatic tension by introducing obstacles that prevent them from achieving their desires. When two characters have opposing objectives—like one wanting to win a competition while the other aims to sabotage it—their interactions become charged with conflict. This not only heightens emotional stakes but also propels the plot forward, as characters must navigate these conflicts and make choices that lead to consequences based on their respective wants.
• Evaluate how understanding a character’s wants contributes to an actor’s performance and overall storytelling.
  • Understanding a character's wants is essential for an actor's performance because it allows them to embody their role with depth and authenticity. When actors grasp what their characters desire, they can make informed choices about how to express emotions, intentions, and reactions on stage. This insight not only enhances their portrayal but also enriches storytelling by aligning the audience's perception with the character's journey. Ultimately, a well-defined want can transform a performance, making it relatable and impactful.

Related terms

Needs:

The fundamental requirements or necessities that a character must fulfill to achieve their goals, often contrasting with their wants.

Objectives: The specific goals or targets that a character aims to achieve in a scene or throughout a story, closely linked to their wants.

Conflict:

The struggle between opposing forces in a narrative, often arising from differing wants or objectives of characters.