Character

Definition

In literature, a character is an individual portrayed in a story, play, or poem, often exhibiting distinct traits, motivations, and roles within the narrative. Characters are central to storytelling as they drive the plot and engage the audience's emotions through their experiences, conflicts, and growth. They can be classified into various types, such as protagonists and antagonists, which help to shape the dynamics of the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Characters can be complex and multi-dimensional, showing a range of emotions and development throughout the story.
2. Authors use both direct and indirect characterization to give insight into a character's personality and motivations.
3. Characters can represent larger themes or ideas, serving as symbols that resonate with the audience.
4. A well-crafted character often undergoes some form of change or growth, known as character arc, throughout the narrative.
5. The relationship between characters can establish tension and conflict, which are essential for engaging storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does the role of a protagonist differ from that of an antagonist in a story?
  • The protagonist is typically the main character who drives the story forward, facing challenges that create the narrative's central conflict. In contrast, the antagonist opposes the protagonist's goals and desires, creating obstacles that heighten the tension within the plot. This dynamic between these two types of characters is crucial for establishing conflict and engaging the audience's interest.
• Discuss how characterization can influence a reader's perception of a character and their journey within a narrative.
  • Characterization greatly influences how readers perceive characters by providing depth and insight into their personalities. Through techniques like direct characterization—where authors explicitly describe a character—and indirect characterization—where readers infer traits from actions and dialogue—authors shape readers' understanding and emotional responses. A well-developed character who experiences growth or change can leave a lasting impact on readers, making them feel more connected to the narrative.
• Evaluate how characters in drama contribute to themes and conflicts within the play, considering both their individual arcs and relationships with one another.
  • Characters in drama are instrumental in conveying themes and conflicts by embodying various perspectives and motivations. Their individual arcs often reflect broader societal issues or personal struggles that resonate with audiences. The relationships between characters can create intricate layers of tension and conflict, enriching the narrative. For instance, the interplay between opposing characters can highlight moral dilemmas or reveal deeper truths about human nature, making the play's themes more impactful.

Related terms

Protagonist:

The main character in a story, often facing challenges and driving the plot forward.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict in the story.

Characterization: The process by which an author reveals the personality and traits of a character through their actions, dialogue, thoughts, and interactions with others.