"Characters are not created by writers. They pre-exist and have to be found."
- Elizabeth Bowen
Developing strong characters is the lifeblood of any novel. They drive the plot, evoke emotions, and create a connection between the story and its readers. Without memorable and well-developed characters, even the most intricate plots can fall flat. Crafting compelling characters is an art that requires attention to detail, consistency, and depth. Whether you’re writing a mystery, romance, or fantasy, developing strong characters ensures your story feels authentic, relatable, and multidimensional.
Step 1. Create Detailed Character Profiles
Every memorable character begins with a solid foundation. Building detailed profiles for your characters helps you understand their world and actions better. Ask yourself:
What do they look like?
What are their likes and dislikes?
What are their fears, dreams, and internal conflicts?
Understanding these elements ensures you are developing strong characters who remain consistent throughout the story. Detailed profiles make it easier to write realistic actions, decisions, and dialogue. For instance, a character with a deep-seated fear of abandonment may hesitate to form close relationships, driving key plot points.
Step 2. Develop Growth Through Arcs and Challenges
Readers connect with characters who grow. A well-crafted character arc demonstrates how a character evolves due to the challenges they face. These challenges should test their beliefs, motivations, and desires, pushing them out of their comfort zones.
For example, a timid protagonist thrust into leadership might grapple with self-doubt but eventually rise to the occasion. Transformative experiences resonate deeply with readers and keep them invested in your story. Developing strong characters through these arcs makes your narrative unforgettable.
Step 3. Show Personality Through Dialogue and Actions
Actions and dialogue reveal more about a character than descriptions ever can. Instead of telling readers a character is “brave” or “shy,” show these traits through their behavior.
A brave character might step forward to protect someone in danger, despite their fear.
A shy character might avoid eye contact or speak softly in group settings.
This “show, don’t tell” approach creates a more immersive experience, allowing readers to discover the characters’ personalities organically. It’s an essential part of developing strong characters that resonate.
Step 4. Avoid Common Character Tropes
While archetypes have their place, relying on clichés can make your characters feel one-dimensional. Characters like the “damsel in distress” or “brooding bad boy” often fail to surprise readers. Instead, strive for depth by blending strengths and vulnerabilities.
For instance, your “brooding bad boy” could secretly volunteer at an animal shelter, revealing a softer side that adds complexity. By subverting expectations, you’ll create fresh and engaging characters. Developing strong characters means avoiding tired tropes and embracing originality.
Examples: How Famous Authors Develop Strong Characters
Famous authors often create unforgettable characters by grounding them in relatable experiences and giving them depth. For instance, J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter resonates because he is both extraordinary and deeply human. Despite being a wizard, Harry deals with universal struggles like loneliness, loss, and the desire to belong. His courage and resilience shine through as he faces challenges, making readers root for him.
Similarly, Jane Austen’s Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice captivates readers with her wit, intelligence, and flawed nature. Elizabeth’s journey of self-discovery and her evolving perspective on Darcy highlight her growth. Austen masterfully develops her through sharp dialogue, nuanced relationships, and internal reflection, making her one of literature’s most beloved characters.
These examples show that developing strong characters involves shaping them through their struggles, relationships, and the worlds they inhabit. By drawing on relatable human experiences, authors ensure their characters resonate with readers.
In conclusion, developing strong characters is the cornerstone of any unforgettable novel. By crafting detailed profiles, developing meaningful arcs, showing personalities through actions and dialogue, and avoiding tired tropes, you can create characters that resonate with readers long after they’ve finished your book.
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Written by Jessica Cassick, M.S., PhD(c)
Jessica Cassick is the CEO of ImagineWe Publishers (Est. 2016), a mother (and soon-to-be wife), writer, scholar, and published author of several original books we’ve published since we first began. A passionate advocate for self-discovery, post-traumatic growth, and holistic success, she blends her academic expertise with her entrepreneurial journey. Jessica is currently finishing her PhD in Creative Leadership for Innovation and Change and writes on a variety of topics, from publishing insights to personal and professional growth strategies. Once a fast-paced achiever with a future-focused mindset, she is now learning to embrace the present, seeking balance, peace, and a deeper sense of purpose in both her professional and personal life.
