Characters in Fiction
...atter should be about what is likely, ordinary, or normal. The standard of verisimilitude allows writers to express moralistic messages by manipulating their fictional characters with probable settings, actions, circumstances, characters, dialogue, and outcomes. The readers because of personal experiences and these verisimilitudinous representations are able to make judgments about the writer’s purpose and motif. Each character invented by the writer has a purpose and is explained accordingly. Authors use stereotypical and stock characters where lengthy explanations are not necessary for comprehension. Flat characters are static and may or may not be explained thoroughly. Although they may appear lively and engaging, they do not improve because they are stupid, lack knowledge, or they are sensitive. Flat characters are used to highlight the round characters. The round characters are the dynamic personalities that recognize, change with, or adjust to circumstances - the hero, protagonist and antagonist. Enough information is given about round characters to fully understand their personalities. The author has methods that reveal character. The author’s lifelike descriptions authorize readers to use their own personal experiences and knowledge to understand and interpret characters. The readers form their own opinions, make their own judgments and come to their own conclusions. Vitality is camouflaged in the character’s dialogue and actions, dialogue of other characters and the author’s descriptions of characters. The author’s descriptions of characters also reveal appearance and environment. The author may also use an authorial voice to explain and interpret actions. Character traits create the comprehension of character. Character traits are little pieces to the big puzzle of a character. To analyze and develop conclusions about literary characters, it is important to understand the meaning of their creation and the meaning of their actions. A character trait is revealed in each action, though and word of a character that relates to the...