the protagonist the antagonist conflict subordinate characters dynamic characters static characters...
TRANSCRIPT
The Protagonist
The Antagonist
Conflict
Subordinate Characters
Dynamic Characters
Static Characters
Motivation
Practice
Character Interactions
Feature Menu
The protagonist is the main character and the focus of readers’ attention. A good protagonist
The Protagonist
[End of Section]
• is complicated and contradictory, like a real person
• has both strengths and weaknesses
The Antagonist
The antagonist is the force that blocks the protagonist from getting what he or she wants. The antagonist may be
• a nonhuman force
• another character
[End of Section]
Conflict
Conflict is a struggle that occurs when the protagonist must find a way to overcome or get around the antagonist.
Conflicts drive plots, create suspense, and intrigue readers.
External conflict occurs between a character and some outside force, such as
Conflict
• a force or feature of nature
• the society the protagonist must live in
• another character or group of characters
Internal conflict occurs when a character struggles with opposing needs, desires, or emotions. The character may
Conflict
• wrestle with fear or worry
• have to make a difficult decision
Conflict
What kind of conflict does Jing-mei face?
[End of Section]
Quick CheckAnd after seeing my mother’s disappointed face again, something inside me began to die. I hated the tests, the raised hopes and failed expectations. Before going to bed that night, I looked in the mirror above the bathroom sink and when I saw only my face staring back—and that it would always be this ordinary face—I began to cry. Such a sad, ugly girl! I made high-pitched noises like a crazed animal, trying to scratch out the face in the mirror.
from “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan
Subordinate Characters
Subordinate characters populate the protagonist’s world. Their relationship with the protagonist helps
• develop the plot and add complexity to the story
• reveal the protagonist’s character
[End of Section]
Dynamic characters change or grow as a result of the story’s action. They
Dynamic Characters
• are main characters
• gain a new understanding, make an important decision, or take a crucial action
• help reveal the meaning of the story
[End of Section]Believable changes
Static characters are usually exactly the same as the story ends as they were when it began. They
Static Characters
• are almost always subordinate characters
• support the plot without distracting readers from the main action—the protagonist’s conflict and growth
[End of Section]
Writers make characters believable by revealing what motivates them to act as they do. A character’s motivation
Motivation
• reveals why characters act, feel, and think as they do
• must usually be inferred from clues in the story
• is based on his or her needs or conflicts
Motivation
What motivates Jing-mei?
[End of Section]
Quick CheckI looked at my reflection, blinking so I could see more clearly. The girl staring back at me was angry, powerful. This girl and I were the same. I had new thoughts, willful thoughts, or rather thoughts filled with lots of wont’s. I won’t let her change me, I promised myself. I won’t be what I’m not.
from “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan
Work with a partner to analyze a short story you have recently read. Use a data bank like the one shown here.
Practice
Data Bank
Main character:
What main character wants:(motivation)
Relationship with subordinate character(s)
Conflict:
Resolution:
How main character changes:
[End of Section]