Character goals

Definition

Character goals are the specific objectives or desires that a character strives to achieve throughout a narrative. These goals drive the character's actions and decisions, creating tension and conflict within the story. Understanding character goals is crucial for developing a compelling plot, as they often serve as the motivation behind a character's journey and can lead to growth or change by the story's conclusion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Character goals can be external, such as achieving a physical task, or internal, such as finding love or self-acceptance.
2. Goals help establish the stakes of the story; if a character's goal is important, readers are more likely to become invested in their journey.
3. A character’s failure to achieve their goal can lead to significant emotional impact and resonate with the audience.
4. Character goals should be clear and relatable, allowing readers to understand what motivates the character and why it matters.
5. The evolution of a character's goals can signify growth or change, which is often a key component of a satisfying resolution.

Review Questions

• How do character goals influence a narrative's plot development?
  • Character goals are fundamental to plot development because they create direction for the story. As characters pursue their objectives, they encounter challenges and obstacles that propel the narrative forward. This pursuit often leads to conflicts that need resolution, driving tension and keeping readers engaged. Ultimately, character goals shape not only individual scenes but also the overall trajectory of the story.
• In what ways can the pursuit of character goals lead to conflict within a story?
  • The pursuit of character goals often generates conflict when multiple characters have differing objectives or when external forces challenge an individual's ambitions. For instance, if one character seeks power while another values friendship, their conflicting goals can create tension that drives the plot. Additionally, characters may face internal conflict when their desires clash with moral values or societal expectations, adding layers to the narrative.
• Evaluate how a character's failure to achieve their goal can enhance thematic depth in a story.
  • When a character fails to achieve their goal, it can underscore important themes such as resilience, sacrifice, or the complexity of human nature. This failure often leads to moments of reflection that resonate deeply with readers, prompting them to consider broader issues like identity or purpose. By exploring how characters cope with setbacks and what they learn from those experiences, writers can enrich the narrative and provoke thought about real-life challenges faced by individuals.

Related terms

protagonist: The main character in a story, often facing challenges related to their goals and desires.

conflict: The struggle between opposing forces in a narrative, often arising from characters pursuing their goals.

character arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, often influenced by the pursuit of their goals.