Stubbornness

Definition

Stubbornness is an unwillingness to change one's mind or course of action, even when presented with new evidence or reasoning. This character flaw can lead to conflicts in relationships and hinder personal growth, as individuals may cling to their beliefs or habits despite negative consequences. Stubbornness often reflects a deep-seated need for control or fear of vulnerability, impacting how characters evolve in narratives and influencing their interactions with others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stubbornness is often rooted in fear—fear of being wrong, fear of losing control, or fear of change—which can make it challenging for individuals to adapt or accept alternative viewpoints.
2. In storytelling, a character's stubbornness can create tension and conflict, driving the plot forward as other characters attempt to challenge or overcome this flaw.
3. Stubborn characters may experience a significant turning point in their journey when they confront the consequences of their rigidity, leading to potential growth or failure.
4. Character growth often involves recognizing and addressing stubbornness, which can lead to more meaningful relationships and personal development.
5. Authors frequently use stubborn characters as a way to explore themes of pride, control, and the struggle for self-awareness, making them pivotal in character-driven narratives.

Review Questions

• How does stubbornness serve as a catalyst for conflict in character relationships?
  • Stubbornness often leads to conflicts between characters, as it prevents them from understanding each other's perspectives. When one character is set in their ways, it can create a power struggle, generating tension and disagreement. This dynamic not only drives the plot but also reveals deeper themes about pride and the need for self-reflection.
• In what ways can overcoming stubbornness contribute to a character's growth arc?
  • Overcoming stubbornness can significantly impact a character's growth arc by allowing them to embrace change and vulnerability. When a character learns to let go of rigid beliefs, they open themselves up to new experiences and relationships. This transformation often results in a more relatable and dynamic character, showcasing the importance of adaptability in personal development.
• Evaluate the role of stubbornness in shaping the narrative of a story and its overall message about personal growth.
  • Stubbornness plays a critical role in shaping the narrative by highlighting the challenges characters face on their journey towards personal growth. As characters grapple with their unwillingness to change, readers are invited to witness their struggles and triumphs. This exploration often leads to a broader message about the necessity of flexibility and openness in overcoming obstacles and achieving self-discovery, ultimately underscoring that growth requires confronting one’s flaws.

Related terms

Pride:

An inflated sense of one's worth or importance, which can often lead to stubbornness when individuals refuse to acknowledge their limitations.

Resilience:

The ability to recover from setbacks or adapt to challenging situations, which can be hindered by stubbornness as it may prevent individuals from accepting help or change.

Growth Arc: The development or transformation of a character throughout a story, often influenced by overcoming flaws like stubbornness to achieve personal growth.