Writing Character Development

Writing character development is hugely important, especially in longer works such as novels or even long short stories.  However, when we talk about writing character development, what do we mean exactly?  Does the character have to learn something ala South Park ("You know what, I learned something today..."), is that even sufficient?  Does the character simply have to move from point A to point B?  Or does it mean relationships must grow?  And last, does it mean the character has changed from the beginning of the story to the end?

While all these things are useful in certain circumstances, not all of them are required, you might, in fact bypass every one of those points entirely and have a written a solid character development.  So, once again, we are back where we started.  It is Friday after all, we're not letting you off easy.

So, Character development can mean a lot of things to a lot of different people, but to me it is fairly simple.  Character development is not necessarily a character changing, growing, or maturing, but the readers understanding of a character changing, growing, or maturing.

There are many ways you can pull this off, some reserved for novels (such as incrementally revealing back story), some are useful in a short story format as well (witnessing a character accept or resist change).

Creative Writing Prompt:  Have you read King Lear?  You know, the one about that once mighty king turned lowly and pathetic as a result of his pride and his scheming daughters.  If not, read it, it's by Shakespeare, or better yet, watch it (it is a play after all and was meant to be seen, not read).  There is a great production which can be watched entirely on youtube staring Ian McKellen.  Here's a clip:



Today's Creative writing prompt is to be inspired!  Watch King Lear, and if you are feeling up to a challenge, make note of plot points and pay attention to the character development, then, write a short story following Shakespeares model.  If you feel guilty doing this, remember that Everything is a Remix, and some great work has been inspired directly by Shakespeare.

Recommended Reading:

King Lear - One of Shakespeares greatest plays (unless the actor playing Lear is sub par, then the whole thing comes across as goofy) and a great model to learn from.  If you are going to study any one writer, why not study the one who is world renowned as the greatest writer of all time.