A character arc is the transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story. It is how a character changes as a result of the events and conflicts they face. A character arc can make a story more engaging and satisfying for the readers, as they witness the growth and development of the protagonist and other characters.
There are different types of character arcs, such as positive, negative, flat, or dynamic. A positive character arc is when a character overcomes a flaw or weakness and becomes a better person. A negative character arc is when a character succumbs to a flaw or weakness and becomes a worse person. A flat character arc is when a character does not change significantly, but rather maintains their beliefs and values in the face of challenges. A dynamic character arc is when a character changes in multiple ways, sometimes unpredictably or inconsistently.
Regardless of the type of character arc, there are some general steps that can help you create interesting and believable character arcs for your novel. Here are some of them:
1. Identify your character’s goal and motivation. What does your character want and why? How does this relate to the main plot and theme of your novel? Your character’s goal and motivation should drive their actions and decisions throughout the story.
2. Identify your character’s flaw or weakness. What is holding your character back from achieving their goal or fulfilling their potential? How does this affect their relationships and self-esteem? Your character’s flaw or weakness should create conflict and tension in the story, both internally and externally.
3. Identify your character’s change or growth. How does your character overcome or succumb to their flaw or weakness? How do they learn from their experiences and mistakes? How do they become a different person by the end of the story? Your character’s change or growth should be gradual and realistic, not sudden or forced.
4. Show your character’s arc through actions and reactions. How does your character behave and respond to different situations and challenges? How do they interact with other characters and influence them? How do they express their emotions and thoughts? Your character’s arc should be shown through what they do and say, not just what they think or feel.
5. Balance your character’s arc with other elements of your novel. How does your character’s arc fit with the overall structure and pace of your novel? How does it complement or contrast with other characters’ arcs? How does it support or challenge the main theme and message of your novel? Your character’s arc should not overshadow or undermine other aspects of your novel, but rather enhance and enrich them.
Creating interesting character arcs can be challenging, but also rewarding. By following these steps, you can craft compelling characters that will captivate your readers and make them care about their journeys.