This is an excellent article that discusses how some characters are considered to be steadfast. Not all characters have to change… ❤
What Character Arc Really Means – Narrative First
Published by Colleen Chesebro
Colleen M. Chesebro loves writing paranormal fantasy and magical realism, cross-genre fiction, syllabic poetry, and creative nonfiction. She loves all things magical which may mean that she could be experiencing her second childhood – or not. That part of her life hasn’t been fully decided yet. A few years ago, a mystical experience led her to renew her passion for writing and storytelling. These days she resides in the fantasy realm of the Fairy Whisperer where she writes the magical poetry and stories that the fairy nymphs whisper to her in her dreams. Colleen lives in Colorado with her husband. When she is not writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband. She also loves gardening, reading, and crocheting old-fashioned doilies into works of art. You can learn more about Colleen at www.colleenchesebro.com. View all posts by Colleen Chesebro
Good definition of the character arc. Is it possible that a character who remains steadfast at the moment of climax undergoes the transformation of realization? Just a thought
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Great question. Although I don’t think that realization necessarily means change. This article had much more to do with the thought process of the hero’s journey. Everyone always says your character MUST change and somehow earn the change. I kind of like the idea that the character was on the right path all along. That would tell me there really is no change and they remain steadfast in the journey they have already undertaken. Great food for thought don’t you think?
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thank you Colleen for this post have subscribed to their weekly updates.
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Such great information. Can you tell I am writing like crazy? These articles really have helped! ❤️
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Reblogged this on firefly465.
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Glad everyone likes the article! If you want to see a great video I put together of Steadfast Main Characters, you can find it here: http://narrativefirst.com/articles/what-character-arc-really-means
In regards to the question about the “character that undergoes the transformation of realization” it depends on what you mean by realization. If you mean a realization followed by change in approach then no, that would apply to a Changed Main Character.
If instead you mean to say the Main Character comes to a point of realization as to what has been driving them and must then decide to either Change their approach or Remain Steadfast then yes, this applies to the Main Character.
One of the purposes of narrative is to show us how we can become blinded to our own justifications when it comes time to solve problems. The process of a story tears down those blinders until the Main Character is finally able to see the difference between their *real* problem and what they thought was their problem. Until that moment of climax they’re simply addressing the Symptoms of their problems, rather than what is really driving them to do the things they do. That moment of realization you speak of could be that moment when they have to decide one way or the other: continue responding to the symptoms and renew their resolve (Steadfast), or address the Problem directly and try something new (Changed).
If you want to learn more about this story point known as the Main Character’s Resolve then check this series of articles out: http://narrativefirst.com/articles/series/character-and-change
If you have any other questions feel free to contact me on my site and thanks again for the kind words…have fun writing!
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Jim, I can’t thank you enough for your great answer. I was happy to find your site and all the amazing information you offer to writers. Thank you again. I will be checking in regularly! ❤
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Ugh, of course now I realize you already linked to that article…don’t know why I thought it was a different one you were referring to. Sorry about that!
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No worries. Your explanation is fabulous!
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