Goal

Definition

A goal is a specific objective or aim that a character strives to achieve throughout a narrative. It serves as a driving force for the protagonist, motivating their actions and decisions while also highlighting their desires and motivations. Understanding a character's goal is essential in establishing conflict, particularly in relation to the antagonist, who often opposes or creates obstacles to this goal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A protagonist's goal can be external, like saving a loved one, or internal, like finding self-acceptance.
2. The clarity of a character's goal often determines the stakes of the story and helps engage the audience.
3. Antagonists typically have their own goals that are directly opposed to those of the protagonist, heightening tension in the narrative.
4. Goals can evolve throughout the story as characters experience growth or face new challenges.
5. The resolution of a character's goal often serves as a crucial turning point in the narrative, leading to either success or failure.

Review Questions

• How does a protagonist's goal influence their development throughout a story?
  • A protagonist's goal is crucial for their development as it provides motivation for their actions and decisions. As they strive to achieve this goal, they encounter challenges that foster growth, reveal their true character, and create opportunities for change. The journey toward achieving their goal shapes their relationships with other characters and influences how they respond to obstacles, ultimately contributing to their evolution by the story's end.
• Analyze how the antagonist's role is defined by their opposition to the protagonist's goals.
  • The antagonist's role is fundamentally shaped by their conflict with the protagonist's goals. By presenting challenges and obstacles, the antagonist forces the protagonist to confront their desires and motivations. This dynamic creates dramatic tension and drives the narrative forward, as each encounter between the two characters highlights their opposing objectives. The strength of the antagonist often determines how compelling and urgent the protagonist's journey becomes.
• Evaluate the impact of evolving goals on character arcs within narratives.
  • Evolving goals significantly impact character arcs by reflecting personal growth and changes in perspective throughout the story. As characters face new experiences or revelations, their initial goals may shift, indicating deeper emotional or psychological transformations. This evolution not only adds complexity to character relationships but also enriches the overall narrative by presenting a more relatable journey for audiences. Ultimately, how well these evolving goals are executed can determine the effectiveness of character arcs and resonate with viewers on multiple levels.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story, usually facing challenges and striving to achieve their goals.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict by standing in the way of their goals.

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces in a story, often arising from the clash between the protagonist's goals and the antagonist's opposition.