BUSINESS 138 [M] [1]
[2] [3] -
Classroom A -
Classroom B
Lesson 1: Knowing Your Character
You have a story idea, now you must build a plot. We'll start with
the main character, your protagonist. Your main character needs 'three
attributes':
- A need or want: to find the lost arc, to escape an abusive marriage,
or to win the heart of your one true love. The need or want makes for an
interesting character and the higher the stakes, the more interesting
their story.
- A strong point: This would be the personality trait that gives our
hero/heroine the potential for triumph. Compassion, courage, ambition,
etc.
- A fatal flaw: This is the trait, that unless our character can
overcome it, may lead to his or her downfall. Fear, greed, conceit,
gullible, etc.
Discovering these attributes in our character will help us develop the
plot.
Reading Assignment:
Plotting Your Novel
Writing Assignment:
1. In no more than 5 sentences, describe your story idea.
2. What is your main character's strong point?
3. What is your main character's fatal flaw?
Post to message board. Discussion might be: Does the strong point and
fatal flaw suit the character in your story idea?
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