A character refers to a person, animal, or entity represented in a work of literature, film, or any other form of storytelling. Each character possesses unique qualities that define their personality, motivations, conflicts, and relationships within the narrative. Characters serve as fundamental building blocks of a story, contributing to its development and progression.
Characters can be further classified into different types, including protagonists, antagonists, supporting characters, and minor characters. The protagonist, often referred to as the main character, typically serves as the focal point of the story, driving the plot forward. Antagonists, on the other hand, are characters who oppose or create obstacles for the protagonist, generating conflict and tension.
In addition, characters may be described as round or flat, depending on the depth of their development. Round characters are multifaceted, exhibiting a range of emotions, behaviors, and desires, while flat characters tend to be one-dimensional, with limited complexity and depth. Supporting characters assist the main characters in their journey, offering insights, advice, or aid, while minor characters have smaller roles and less impact on the overall narrative.
Characters are often created through various literary techniques such as dialogue, actions, descriptions, and interactions with other characters. Their attributes, including physical appearance, personality traits, beliefs, and backgrounds, contribute to their overall believability and relatability. Well-developed characters can evoke empathy, attachment, or even disdain from readers, enhancing their engagement with the story and its themes.
