Characters play a defining part in creating a story line.
Characterization is vital when it comes to novels, movies and plays. Every piece of literature requires the writer to establish main characters to act as the protagonist and antagonist. This is crucial when it comes to making an entertaining story.
When I think back to some of my favorite pieces of literature, I always remember the characters. They are what truly makes the story come alive and memorable. When you are reading a novel or short story, in a sense you are living through the character. You are seeing how they view things. It is almost like entering a new world an escape.
In high school, To Kill a Mockingbird was one of my favorite books that we read in Lit class. Through the use of characters, Lee was able to create feelings of inspiration, love, heartache, joy and despair in readers. She uses characters like Scout, Jem and Atticus Finch to bring the story to life and create different emotion throughout the story. I found myself rooting for Finch while he was defending Tom Robinson. Lee’s vivid characterization allowed Atticus Finch to become one of the most beloved heros in classic fiction.
When it comes to memorable characters in literature, I always think of Jane Austen's novels. I read most of her books in high school and always fell in love with the people in them. The way she describes her characters through her words as well as their actions makes them seem very real and allows her readers to feel as if they know them. She usually has a protagonist and antagonist in her novels. In my opinion, Austen does a brilliant job when it comes to characterization.
The characters are what draw the person in to the drama or book. The audience or reader is able to relate to the characters and this allows the work to have more of an impact.
Yes so true... The gospels I think do a great Job in showing the true character of Jesus. Even though his physical features are not spoken of, who he was does not lack at all. The many other characters in the gospels, even if they are only in for a paragraph or two, make the gospels come alive due to their details of the individuals and circumstances.
ReplyDeleteWe are drawn into the books and stories by characters. The books and stories that I remember are ones that have well developed characters that leave a lasting impression in my mind.
ReplyDeleteI always struggled with what is more important, the characters or the story. Can one exist without the other?
ReplyDeleteI guess it's based on opinion, but I whole heartedly agree with you when you said that characters define the story.
In alot of cases, with literature and even movies, it is the character that keeps you drawn into that work. Whether it's their life circumstances, unusual ahppenstances, or just their persona...it keeps you drawn.
ReplyDeleteCharacters are essential part in the majority of good writing however plot driven stories exist that rival ones with the majority of focus is centered around character development, especially in the realm of entertainment. Ex. 300, avatar, or insert almost any comedy here.
ReplyDeleteCharacters are what keeps a reader reading. Characters make stories worth while. Without deep characters a story can only go so far. I agree with you post, it was great.
ReplyDeleteWow, Faith, popular girl tonight. ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm definately more interested in books driven by characters. It's harder to translate that in a movie, because good introspecton or character-revealing verbal communication may come off as cheesy, but when it gets pulled off, I'm usually so in love with it, I'm like, "sure, movie, I don't mind if you don't have a plot." XD ... 500 Days of Summer was maybe my favorite movie of all times.