This week, we will delve deeper into character arcs to enrich the growth of our characters and narratives.
Moral Ascending Character Arc:
"Just when they think they have failed, just when they think they have no hope, they realize the key... is friendship.
As the name suggests, a moral ascending character arc pushes a hero past their flaws and weaknesses, and they become a better person. While the key may sometimes be friendship, it could also be compassion, trust, family, or sacrificing for the greater good.
When done right, a positive character arc can bring us to tears. This is often the moment that evokes cheers from the audience.Who doesn't love it when someone overcomes their flaws and saves the day? This positive change is something we root for because we all want to overcome our weaknesses." -Robert Reed Smith
We discussed the following examples:
Eleanor Shellstrop - The Good Place
Han Solo - Star Wars
Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation - Avatar the Last Airbender
Moral Descending Character Arc:
"Ahh yes, the delicious descent into darkness. Just like the name suggests, these arcs will take your characters down the path that rocks! The more that they give in to their desires and weaknesses, the further they let their morals and values fall by the wayside.
A negative character arc can be very fun to write and very fun to read. But be sure to give a believable reason for why the person is making the decisions that they are. Evil for evil's sake is a bit of a trope at this point."
-Robert Reed Smith
We discussed the following examples:
Princess Azula of the Fire Nation - Avatar the Last Airbender
Anakin Skywalker - Star Wars
Transformational Character Arc:
A transformational character arc has a character undergoing a significant change over the course of their story. This change can be internal or external, and it's often associated with the hero's journey archetype:
Internal change: The character's beliefs, values, or attitudes shift.
External change: The character's relationships, circumstances, or physical appearance change.
Hero's journey: The character starts as an underdog and becomes a hero
We discussed the following examples:
Katniss Everdeen - The Hunger Games
Luke Skywalker - Star Wars
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
How to Write a Captivating Character Arc by MasterClass
What is a Character Arc? The Four Types with Examples by Robert Reed Smith
Story Structures: The Fundamentals You Need to Know by Doug Landsborough
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