2.2 Character Analysis and Development

Character analysis is the backbone of compelling storytelling. It digs into the heart of what makes characters tick, exploring their goals, motivations, and the challenges they face. Understanding these elements helps create rich, relatable characters that drive the narrative forward.

Character arcs and relationships are key to crafting engaging stories. By examining how characters change over time and interact with others, we can create complex, dynamic narratives that resonate with audiences. These elements work together to bring depth and authenticity to the characters and their world.

Character Analysis

Character objectives and motivations

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• Objectives represent the goal or desire a character pursues in a scene or throughout the story
  • Can be external and tangible (winning a competition, securing a job) or internal and emotional (finding love, overcoming fear)
  • May evolve or change as the story progresses, reflecting the character's growth or shifting priorities (Luke Skywalker's objective shifts from leaving Tatooine to becoming a Jedi and defeating the Empire)
• Motivations serve as the driving force behind a character's actions and decisions
  • Rooted in the character's background, personality, beliefs, and values (Batman's motivation to fight crime stems from witnessing his parents' murder)
  • Influenced by past experiences, fears, traumas, or aspirations (Elsa's motivation to isolate herself in "Frozen" is driven by her fear of harming others with her powers)
  • Provide insight into why characters behave the way they do and make certain choices (Walter White's motivation to provide for his family leads him to enter the drug trade in "Breaking Bad")
• Obstacles are challenges or barriers that prevent a character from achieving their objectives
  • Can be external, such as physical, environmental, or societal barriers (Frodo's journey to destroy the One Ring is hindered by Sauron's forces and treacherous landscapes in "The Lord of the Rings")
  • Can be internal, such as psychological, emotional, or moral conflicts (Hamlet's internal struggle with the decision to avenge his father's death)
  • Create conflict, tension, and force characters to adapt, grow, or make difficult choices (Erin Brockovich's fight against a powerful corporation in the face of legal and personal challenges)

Character arcs and development

• Character arc refers to the transformation or journey a character undergoes throughout the story
  • Can be positive, showing growth and improvement (Ebenezer Scrooge's transformation from a miserly, cold-hearted man to a generous, compassionate individual in "A Christmas Carol")
  • Can be negative, depicting a character's decline or downfall (Michael Corleone's descent into the world of organized crime in "The Godfather")
  • Can be flat, where the character remains relatively unchanged, but their presence may inspire change in others (James Bond's consistent characterization across many films)
• Types of character arcs include:
  • Positive change arc: Character overcomes flaws, learns valuable lessons, or achieves personal growth (Simba's journey from a carefree cub to a responsible leader in "The Lion King")
  • Negative change arc: Character's flaws, weaknesses, or poor choices lead to their downfall or deterioration (Walter White's transformation from a mild-mannered chemistry teacher to a ruthless drug lord in "Breaking Bad")
  • Flat arc: Character remains steadfast in their beliefs and values, often serving as a catalyst for change in others (Atticus Finch's unwavering moral compass in "To Kill a Mockingbird")
• Analyzing character development involves:
  • Identifying key moments, decisions, or turning points that shape the character's arc (Scout's experience with the trial and its aftermath in "To Kill a Mockingbird")
  • Examining how the character's objectives, motivations, and obstacles evolve throughout the story (Iron Man's shift from self-centered billionaire to self-sacrificing hero)
  • Considering how relationships and interactions with other characters influence their growth or change (Carl's friendship with Russell in "Up" helps him process his grief and rediscover his sense of adventure)

Relationships between characters

• Types of character relationships include:
  • Protagonist and antagonist: The central conflict between the main character and their primary opponent (Luke Skywalker vs. Darth Vader in "Star Wars")
  • Allies and enemies: Supporting characters who aid or hinder the protagonist's journey (Harry Potter's friends Ron and Hermione, and his nemesis Draco Malfoy)
  • Love interests: Romantic relationships that can complicate or enhance the character's arc (Bella and Edward's love story in "Twilight")
  • Mentor and mentee: An experienced character who guides or teaches the protagonist (Mr. Miyagi and Daniel LaRusso in "The Karate Kid")
• Analyzing character dynamics involves:
  • Examining how characters' objectives and motivations align or clash with one another (The Avengers' differing approaches to problem-solving and teamwork)
  • Identifying power imbalances, tensions, or conflicts between characters (The power struggle between Professor X and Magneto in the "X-Men" series)
  • Considering how characters' relationships evolve or change over the course of the story (The development of Woody and Buzz's friendship in "Toy Story")
• Character relationships can impact story progression by:
  • Creating obstacles, providing support, or introducing new complications (The Resistance's efforts to defeat the First Order in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens")
  • Revealing important information, advancing the plot, or providing emotional depth (The relationship between Marlin and Dory in "Finding Nemo" helps drive the search for Nemo)
  • Tying into the story's climax and conclusion through the resolution of character relationships (The reconciliation of Simba and his uncle Scar in "The Lion King")