Desire

Definition

Desire is a powerful driving force that motivates characters to pursue specific goals or outcomes throughout a narrative. It serves as the catalyst for action, propelling characters into conflict and shaping their decisions. The strength and complexity of desire often lead to heightened stakes and emotional investment in the story, impacting both character development and plot progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Desires can be intrinsic or extrinsic; intrinsic desires come from within the character, while extrinsic desires are influenced by external factors.
2. Characters may have multiple desires that can conflict with each other, creating internal struggles and depth in their arcs.
3. Clear articulation of a character's desire helps viewers understand their motivations and choices throughout the story.
4. As the story progresses, desires often evolve, leading to increased stakes and more complex conflicts.
5. The resolution of a character's desire can serve as a critical turning point in the narrative, determining the outcome of their journey.

Review Questions

• How does a character's desire influence their decisions and actions throughout a story?
  • A character's desire serves as a primary motivator that drives their choices and behavior in the narrative. When characters are faced with obstacles or conflicts, their desires push them to act, often leading to pivotal moments in the story. As they pursue their goals, the clarity of their desire helps shape the plot and deepen the audience's engagement with the character's journey.
• Analyze how contrasting desires among characters can create conflict within a narrative.
  • Contrasting desires among characters can lead to significant conflict as they compete for opposing goals or outcomes. This tension not only drives the plot forward but also reveals deeper themes such as sacrifice, loyalty, or betrayal. When characters with conflicting desires interact, their differing motivations highlight the stakes involved, raising emotional engagement and making the narrative more compelling.
• Evaluate the impact of desire on character development and overall story arc in a screenplay.
  • Desire profoundly impacts character development by defining who they are and what they strive for throughout the story. As characters encounter challenges that test their desires, they experience growth or transformation, which is crucial for a satisfying narrative arc. The evolution of desire also influences key plot points and resolutions, as fulfilling or failing to achieve these desires leads to meaningful conclusions that resonate with audiences.

Related terms

Motivation: The underlying reason or drive behind a character's actions, closely linked to their desires.

Conflict:

The struggle between opposing forces that arises from characters' desires, creating tension and interest in the narrative.

Goal:

A specific target or outcome that a character seeks to achieve, often fueled by their desires.