Character Development

Definition

Character development refers to the process of creating a believable and complex character that evolves throughout a story. This development can include changes in personality, beliefs, and behavior, allowing characters to grow in response to their experiences and challenges. In literature, effective character development is essential for creating compelling narratives that resonate with readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 'The Canterbury Tales', characters like the Wife of Bath show significant development as they express their views on gender roles and relationships, challenging societal norms of their time.
2. Coffee houses in 18th-century England became important venues for writers and intellectuals to discuss and shape literary circles, influencing character portrayal and development in new works.
3. The rise of the novel in the 18th century allowed for deeper exploration of characters' inner thoughts and motivations, moving beyond surface-level traits seen in earlier literature.
4. Daniel Defoe's work often showcased characters who were shaped by their environments and experiences, highlighting how personal circumstances influence character development.
5. Other novelists of the 18th century also focused on complex characters, utilizing techniques like free indirect discourse to provide insight into characters' thoughts and feelings.

Review Questions

• How does character development contribute to the themes presented in 'The Canterbury Tales'?
  • Character development in 'The Canterbury Tales' enhances themes such as social class, morality, and gender roles by providing diverse perspectives through its cast. For instance, characters like the Pardoner and the Wife of Bath offer insights into societal flaws and challenge prevailing beliefs. Their development reveals the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas, enriching the narrative's thematic depth.
• In what ways did coffee house culture influence character development in 18th-century literature?
  • Coffee house culture played a crucial role in shaping character development by fostering discussions among writers and intellectuals. This environment encouraged new ideas about individuality and personal experience, leading to richer character portrayals in literature. Writers began to focus more on inner conflicts and social commentary, resulting in multi-dimensional characters that resonated with readers.
• Evaluate how Daniel Defoe's approach to character development reflects broader changes in 18th-century literature.
  • Daniel Defoe's approach to character development signifies a shift towards realism and psychological complexity in 18th-century literature. His protagonists often face moral challenges and are deeply affected by their environments, showcasing individualism that aligns with Enlightenment ideals. This focus on character as shaped by society set a precedent for later novelists, promoting the idea that characters are not static but evolve through their experiences.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story, often facing challenges and undergoing significant personal growth.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and driving the story forward.

Arc: The trajectory of a character's development throughout a story, often depicting their transformation or growth.