How to Create – and Write – a Dynamic Protagonist
Creating a dynamic protagonist is crucial to writing a compelling story. The protagonist is the character that drives the plot forward and engages the reader's interest. A dynamic protagonist is a character that changes and grows over the course of the story, facing obstacles, making tough decisions, and evolving in response to the challenges they face. In this article, we'll explore some tips for writing a dynamic protagonist.
Give your protagonist a clear goal
A clear goal helps the protagonist have a clear purpose in the story. A well-defined goal that is important to the character gives readers a reason to root for them, and invest in their journey. The protagonist's goal should be specific, attainable, and consequential. This creates a sense of urgency and importance that drives the plot forward and motivates the protagonist to take action.
Create a compelling backstory
A protagonist with a compelling backstory gives the reader a better understanding of who they are, and what motivates them. The backstory should be relevant to the story and should add depth to the character, providing insight into their behavior and actions. The backstory should also help to create an emotional connection between the reader and the protagonist.
Show their flaws and weaknesses
No one is perfect, and your protagonist shouldn't be either. Showing their flaws and weaknesses makes the character more relatable and human, and allows readers to empathize with them. Flaws and weaknesses also create internal conflict, which can be just as compelling as external conflict.
Give them a strong character arc
A strong character arc shows the protagonist's growth and transformation over the course of the story. The protagonist should evolve and change, learning important lessons and making tough decisions that shape who they become. This evolution should be believable and realistic, and should be driven by the obstacles and challenges the protagonist faces throughout the story.
Make them proactive
A dynamic protagonist is proactive, taking action to achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. They should be the ones driving the story forward, making decisions and taking risks that move the plot in new directions. A proactive protagonist is more engaging than a passive one, and gives the reader a reason to invest in their journey.
In conclusion, writing a dynamic protagonist requires a clear goal, a compelling backstory, realistic flaws, a strong character arc, and a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles. These tips can help you create a compelling and relatable protagonist that readers will care about and root for throughout the story.
Want to know how to create a memorable villain? Be sure to read How to Create - and Write - a Compelling Antagonist (Villain).
