4 Reasons Why You Need 3 Dimensional Characters, and How To Create Them!
To create these 3 dimensional characters, as writers, we must consider not only what they say and do and how they look, but why they say and do and look as they do. What happened in their past? Who is their best friend? What do they secretly yearn for? Your character should feel as real as any person you know, and that feeling of connection will be found by your reader.
Developing a three-dimensional character in a narrative is essential because it adds depth, complexity, and believability to the story. Here are 4 reasons why it is important:
1. Realism: Three-dimensional characters feel more realistic and relatable to the audience. By giving characters a range of emotions, motivations, flaws, and strengths, they become more human and multidimensional. This helps to create a deeper connection between the audience and the character, making the story more engaging.
2. Conflict and Tension: Three-dimensional characters often have internal conflicts and contradictions that drive the narrative forward. These conflicts can create tension and suspense, keeping the audience invested in the story. When characters have conflicting desires, beliefs, or needs, it adds complexity and richness to their interactions and relationships.
3. Character Arcs: Three-dimensional characters have the potential for growth and change throughout the narrative. By developing their strengths, weaknesses, and evolving beliefs, characters can undergo transformative journeys that captivate the audience. Character arcs provide a sense of progression and development, making the story more dynamic and satisfying.
4. Exploration of Themes: Three-dimensional characters allow for the exploration of complex themes and ideas. Through their experiences, choices, and interactions, characters can embody different perspectives and philosophies. This enables the narrative to delve into deeper issues and provoke thought and reflection in the audience.
Overall, developing three-dimensional characters in a narrative enriches the storytelling experience by making it more realistic, engaging, and thought-provoking. It allows for the exploration of deeper themes, creates conflict and tension, and provides opportunities for character growth and transformation.
So how do you create 3Dimensional Characters?
Planning!
Planning a 3 dimensional character means doing a bit of analysis in reverse. When analysing a character we consider all the elements of STEAL:
What they SAY
What they THINK
Their EFFECT on others
Their ACTIONS
and how they LOOK!
Take all of these elements and ask both why, and how?
This reverse engineering will give your character more than just superficial presence. It will provide them with a back story and motivations which will influence all aspects of the plot. This all takes time, but sometimes you need a 3 dimensional character quickly and easily, so I developed a roll-a-character system to make the whole process simple, quick and fun.
Whereas some quick planners only consider superficial aspects of character, this one is comprehensive, incorporating all aspects of STEAL to create a truly 3 dimensional character with ease.
Push your creative boundaries and enjoy the journey!
Monique x