1. Character Descriptions
How well-developed are they?

2. Descriptive Pairs
Round or Flat
Static or Dynamic

3. Flat Characters one-dimensional
one-sided—we only see one side of his or her personality; lack depth
often stereotypical (can often be “stock” characters)
Ex. the villain who is evil throughout the story: we never see anything redeeming in his or her character
Ex. the hero who is perfectly good throughout the story; we never see any faults
The Seven Dwarves: Dopey, Sleepy, Bashful, Happy, Sneezy, Doc (Grumpy softens)
Morality plays and allegories (characters that represent one of the Seven Deadlies)

4. Round Character
a character in whom the author reveals different and sometimes opposing traits
We see different aspects of his or her personality
Characters who most resemble real people (verisimilitude=life-likeness)
Mixture of good and bad traits, often with conflicting feelings, values, principles, etc.
Real people deal with internal conflicts
Readers connect to round characters!

5. Static Characters Stasis—remaining the same; unchanging
Static character—one who does not change throughout the story
Can be round or flat
Ex. Nala (The Lion King)—is feisty and challenges Simba throughout the story; she does not go through any major changes in her character/personality (values, belief system, outlook on life, philosophy)

6. Dynamic Characters Undergo a major change throughout the story
Often in the way of values, morals, principles, worldview
Ex. The Hero Initiation
Separation/transformation/return cycle
Transformation—the hero moves/changes from a state of immaturity to maturity
Simba, Ebenezer Scrooge, etc.
(anti-hero) Sweeney Todd—barber; good guy at the beginning of the story; is unjustly imprisoned; turns evil (becomes a serial killer)
Syndrome (The Incredibles)—naïve super-fan; wants to be Mr. I’s sidekick; feels rejected; turns to evil
Lt. Dan (Forrest Gump), The Grinch, Hancock, Bad Santa