A character arc is the transformation or evolution of a character throughout the story. It can involve various changes for the character, from emotional to psychological, moral, or any other type of changes that have an impact on the character and their role within the plot. Today we will tell you what types of character arcs exist and how they are developed to create unforgettable stories. Stay with us to find out!
What is the character arc?
The character arc implies a change in the protagonist. The story begins from a starting point, and throughout all the experiences and actions, this point is transformed and raised to another level.
All good stories have a few elements in common, and one of them is the presence of strong character transformation arcs. An exploitative boss who becomes a hero after discovering love, or the shy young woman who becomes a bloodthirsty killer driven by revenge, for example.
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How to make a character arc?
Creating a strong character arc requires a deep understanding of the character. We need to understand their context, the journey they will take, and what it will mean to them. Let’s look at some important steps to developing an effective character arc:
Get to know the character. Get to know their story, personality, motivations, strengths, weaknesses, desires…
Establish a starting point. We begin with an initial state from which the character will begin his life and it involves introducing him to his usual environment.
Establish goals and conflicts. For the arc to be meaningful, the character must overcome challenges and conflicts that make him change.
Create key moments. Identify points in the story where you experience moments of revelation, crises, turning points, and decisions that affect the plot.
It allows for growth. You must learn important lessons, overcome fears, and change your perspective on yourself.
Satisfying conclusion. The arc should have a conclusion that reflects the journey you have undertaken. You can achieve your goals, overcome the conflicts that have arisen, and understand yourself and the world in a different way.
Review. Review consistency and motivations, ensure key moments are well integrated and make adjustments as needed.
Types of character arc
Different transformation arcs can be used to structure a story. Each type of character arc has its characteristics and results:
Growth or development arc
This is one of the most basic and widely used arcs. In this type of arc, the character experiences personal growth or development during the story. They may start in a state of immaturity, ignorance, or lack of ability, and as the plot progresses, they improve their abilities and learn lessons about themselves and their environment.
Redemption Arc
The character’s starting point is a state of sin, error, or moral corruption. Throughout the story, he or she will seek redemption and must face the consequences of past actions and work to make amends for mistakes or character flaws. The character may experience remorse, and regret, and seek forgiveness, culminating in a moral or spiritual transformation.
Hero Arc
Adventure and fantasy genres often feature hero arcs. In these, the protagonist embarks on an epic journey to confront a great evil and save the world. Throughout the story, he goes through a series of trials and challenges that lead him to discover his true potential on the one hand and to become a symbol of hope and courage on the other.
Arch of transformation
The character experiences significant changes in his or her identity, personality, or outlook throughout the story. These changes may be the result of traumatic events, important revelations, or encounters with other characters that challenge the character’s beliefs and values. They may lead the character to discover a new identity, take on a new purpose, or abandon old convictions.
Anti-hero arc
Unlike the traditional hero arc, it features a character who does not have the characteristics of a conventional hero. He may be selfish, amoral, or questionable in his actions. Throughout the story, however, he undergoes a change that leads him to perform acts of heroism or redemption and defy the conventions of the genre.
Arc of decline
Finally, decline arcs feature a character who experiences a decline throughout the story. The starting point may be a state of power, prestige, or virtue, but due to their actions or circumstances, the protagonist falls into decline, becomes corrupt, or desperate. Often, these arcs involve the loss of values, moral degradation, or destruction of the character and may lead to a tragic or catastrophic ending.
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