Driving Force

Definition

The driving force refers to the primary motivation or goal that propels a character, particularly the protagonist, to take action throughout a story. It is essential for developing the narrative, as it shapes the character's journey, influences their decisions, and ultimately drives the plot forward. The driving force often intertwines with themes, character development, and conflict, creating a dynamic storytelling experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The driving force can be an external goal, such as saving a loved one or achieving a dream, or an internal desire like seeking redemption or understanding oneself.
2. A strong driving force is critical for engaging audiences, as it creates stakes and emotional investment in the protagonist's journey.
3. The driving force often evolves over time, reflecting changes in the character’s experiences and relationships as they confront various obstacles.
4. The effectiveness of a driving force can significantly impact pacing and structure, as it determines how events unfold and how quickly the story progresses.
5. Understanding a character's driving force allows for deeper analysis of their motivations and the overall themes of the story.

Review Questions

• How does the driving force of a protagonist influence their actions and decisions throughout a story?
  • The driving force of a protagonist serves as their primary motivation, influencing every action and decision they make. For example, if a character's driving force is to seek revenge, their choices will likely lead them down a path filled with conflict and moral dilemmas. This motivation helps define their character arc and connects them to the audience's emotions, making it crucial for storytelling.
• Discuss how a change in the protagonist's driving force can affect the overall narrative structure.
  • When a protagonist's driving force changes, it can dramatically alter the narrative structure. For instance, if a character begins with a desire for power but shifts to seeking redemption after facing consequences for their actions, this transition affects both the plot direction and pacing. Such shifts can introduce new conflicts and challenges, reshaping relationships with other characters while providing fresh thematic explorations.
• Evaluate the role of the driving force in character development and thematic exploration within storytelling.
  • The driving force plays a vital role in both character development and thematic exploration by establishing what drives characters toward growth or transformation. It shapes not only their journeys but also the overarching themes of the narrative. For example, if a protagonist's driving force centers around love and sacrifice, it allows for an examination of loyalty, personal choice, and societal expectations. This connection between motivation and theme enriches the narrative depth, making the story more relatable and impactful.

Related terms

Protagonist:

The main character in a story around whom the plot revolves, often facing obstacles and challenges that lead to growth or change.

Conflict:

The central struggle between opposing forces in a narrative that creates tension and drives the plot, often stemming from the protagonist's driving force.

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout the story, often influenced by their driving force and the challenges they face.