Motivation

Definition

Motivation refers to the internal and external factors that stimulate desire and energy in individuals to be continually interested and committed to a task or role. In the context of developing multidimensional characters in non-fiction narratives, understanding motivation is essential as it shapes character actions, decisions, and overall engagement with their circumstances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Motivation can be categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic types, each influencing character behavior in different ways.
2. Understanding a character's motivation helps writers create deeper, more relatable characters that resonate with readers.
3. Motivation can shift over time, reflecting changes in a character’s circumstances, beliefs, or desires, which adds layers to their development.
4. In non-fiction narratives, real-life motivations can be tied to cultural, social, or personal contexts that shape a character’s journey.
5. A well-defined motivation often leads to conflict within a narrative, driving the plot forward as characters face challenges in pursuit of their goals.

Review Questions

• How do intrinsic and extrinsic motivations differ in shaping the actions of characters in non-fiction narratives?
  • Intrinsic motivation arises from within the character, leading them to act out of personal fulfillment or passion. In contrast, extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards or pressures, such as societal expectations or financial gain. Understanding these differences allows writers to craft more nuanced characters whose actions reflect their true desires and challenges, ultimately enriching the narrative.
• Discuss how a character's motivations can evolve throughout a non-fiction narrative and the impact this has on their overall development.
  • As a non-fiction narrative progresses, a character's motivations may change due to new experiences or insights gained along the way. This evolution can deepen the character arc, showing readers how they adapt to obstacles or alter their goals. Such shifts not only enhance the complexity of the character but also reflect broader themes within the narrative, making it more engaging for the audience.
• Evaluate how understanding motivation can lead to the creation of multidimensional characters in non-fiction narratives and its significance for storytelling.
  • Grasping the nuances of motivation is crucial for developing multidimensional characters because it provides insight into why characters make specific choices and how they react to various situations. This understanding fosters authenticity in storytelling by allowing writers to depict real human experiences and emotions. As characters grapple with their motivations amidst real-life challenges, it creates compelling narratives that resonate deeply with readers, ultimately enhancing the impact of non-fiction storytelling.

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation: The drive to do something based on internal rewards, such as personal satisfaction or a sense of accomplishment.

Extrinsic Motivation: The drive to perform a task based on external rewards or pressures, like money, praise, or avoiding punishment.

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a narrative, often driven by their motivations and experiences.