Character interaction

Character Interactions ,[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],Feature Menu

Connecting with Characters What draws readers into a story? Vivid, complex characters whose problems and triumphs draw forth our emotions and reveal some truth about humankind. [End of Section]

Main Characters ,[object Object],Protagonist —the main character of a story. 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. Main character Friends [End of Section]

Flat Characters versus Round Characters Flat characters ,[object Object],[object Object]

Flat Characters versus Round Characters Round characters ,[object Object],[object Object],[End of Section]

Dynamic Characters versus Static Characters Dynamic characters ,[object Object],[object Object],The changes that a dynamic character undergoes contribute to the meaning of the story.

Dynamic Characters versus Static Characters Static characters ,[object Object],[object Object],Subordinate characters are often static characters. [End of Section]

Conflict External conflict —struggle between a character and an outside force. ,[object Object],[object Object],[object Object]

Conflict Internal conflict —struggle between opposing needs or desires or emotions within a character. ,[object Object],[object Object]

Conflict What type of conflict does the character face? Quick Check “ Y’all git some stones,” commanded Joey now and was met with instant giggling obedience as everyone except me began to gather pebbles from the dusty ground. “Come on, Lizabeth.” I just stood there peering through the bushes, torn between wanting to join the fun and feeling that it was a bit silly. from “Marigolds” by Eugenia W. Collier [End of Section]

Conflict Internal conflict. She has to decide whether to join in or not. What type of conflict does the character face? Quick Check “ Y’all git some stones,” commanded Joey now and was met with instant giggling obedience as everyone except me began to gather pebbles from the dusty ground. “Come on, Lizabeth.” I just stood there peering through the bushes, torn between wanting to join the fun and feeling that it was a bit silly. from “Marigolds” by Eugenia W. Collier

Motivation Motivation —what drives a character’s actions. It ,[object Object],[object Object],Motivation can be inferred by observing characters’ behavior, speech, actions. ,[object Object],[End of Section]

Practice Think of a story you’ve read in which the protagonist faces powerful conflicts. Use a chart like the one here to map out the conflicts and their resolutions, as well as the protagonist’s motivations. ,[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[object Object],[End of Section]

Character interaction

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Character interaction