Character growth

English

Definition

The way a character changes internally over the course of a story, often as a result of facing conflicts, making choices, or gaining new understanding. Also called a character arc, this development is what makes characters feel realistic and what often carries a story's theme.

Examples

  • Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice overcomes her initial prejudice against Darcy
  • Ebenezer Scrooge transforms from a miser to a generous man in A Christmas Carol
  • Katniss Everdeen evolves from a survival-focused hunter to a symbol of rebellion in The Hunger Games

Related Terms

Character analysis Characterization Narrative arc Theme development

Study This Concept

Practice character growth with free review games in these units:

Creative Writing Unit 2: Character Development