Post History

Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/27359
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

I disagree with the notion that an Author must delve into the background of each character for character development. But, this is one of the primary ways to develop characters without affecting the main story arc. However, expanding on a character's background in itself, doesn't necessarily provide character development. What is really needed is to provide the "why" behind a character's actions and expanding on a character's background is a good way to do to this. (ie, I'm afraid of snakes due to a bad encounter when I was young)

Some examples of how to build character development without necessarily building in a lot of backstory/background:

- What has led your protagonist to help her subordinate into getting the role of CEO? Just because she's a helpful person may not be enough. Expand on why she's a helpful person.

- Why is she incensed with not getting a corner office? What makes her think she deserves one? Some people may not care about having the corner office, but instead would care about how they were treated in everyday conversations. Does a friend/spouse constantly point out that she's not being treated fairly? Does this sense of entitlement come form somewhere else? Explain/expand on this.

- Why does she leave the firm and continue to help her subordinate? Is this retribution for the perceived wrongs that the company has done her in the past? But if she elevates her subordinate because he's/she's a good worker, then your protagonist is actually helping the company. This is somewhat a conflict of morals. Why does she go through with this? The "why" behind these actions would have to be greatly detailed or characters might appear hollow.

- Why does the Pot-shaped character remain this way? No exercise? Why would he not change his appearance if he knew it would affect his chances of becoming CEO?

In general, when characters lack depth, it is usually because they don't have the "why's" behind their actions explained.

With regards to how much character development is necessary. That is largely subjective, but if you're getting feedback that you may need more character development, then it might be good to include more.

Original score: 2