The Empowering Character Arc

What is a character arc?

A Character Arc could also be described as the journey.  Remember, every protagonist must have a journey that they experience throughout the storyline.  Sometimes, it can be seen in the development of their character or personality they experience.  Some examples of this are frequently seen in the aspects of their persona—emotional, physical or psychological.

Why does a character need an arc?

A character arc helps to create believable characters that will always have universal appeal.  Without an arc, the character might not be convincing or interesting and could loose the audience.  The lead character must go on some kind of transformational journey.  If you want your audience to identify with your protagonist, create a complex journey for them to take.  Make him or her human.  Ask and answer questions like:  What is the their goal?  Define if it’s emotional or physical.  What do they want (want/desire births action) and how will they change (transform) throughout the story?  This kind of character is universally appealing.  Why?  Because we relate to them!

Examples:  Luke Skywalker in the First Star Wars film.  He begins his journey as a naïve farm boy with dreams of exploring the solar system. Luke struggles with authority, responsibility and “The Force,” but as the story progresses, obstacles are thrown his way that he has to overcome.   By the end of the film, Skywalker is living the dream; he’s fighting villains and saving a princess.

*Note:  Character arcs are for the main characters.  Very often the antagonist will have an arc too.  They need to have their own life journey—even if it’s evil, which makes them seem more real-to-life.