Fantasy Project - Character & Events

In any writing, character is key. It is the most essential element of writing, even in poetry, plays, or fiction writing.

For fantasy, the protagonist generally falls under one of the following types:
1. The quiet, but deadly warrior (ex. Conan, Elric of Melniborne)
2. The innocent who is swept up in the plot unexpectedly (ex. Bilbo, Frodo, Harry Potter)
3. The determined youngster out to prove him/herself (ex. Frodo, Harry Potter)
4. The outcast (ex. Harry Potter, Shrek)

The hero/heroine always has a goal. There is usually something in the character's personality that becomes a helpful tool, for example: bravery, stick-to-it-ness, chutzpah, innocence, determination, etc. It is usually a positive, but dormant trait that the events of the story help bring into focus.

What's in a Name?

Fantasy names can be a little odd. They are often determined by the type of mythology that the author uses as a background. Bilbo, for example, recalls the type of Norse names common in Anglo Saxon literature; however, he is an innocent, foolish sort of character so the ending of his name suggests a softness or feminine quality to it. Harry Potter, by contrast, is undoubtedly English. Conan just sounds "tough."
XsnickerX

So, create a protagonist for your story. Write notes in your journal. Choose one of the types of characters and describe, flesh out, motivate your character. Use the link to the side to help create a name. Then move on to part 2.

Part 2:

Events.

Stuff happens in stories. Events. Problems. Things that keep the reader interested. This means that, like in the quest, the hero/heroine is going to be challenged. Usually the type of challenge to the character(s) reflects their personality and the type of "strengths" they have. For example: Bilbo is a simple, unassuming fellow who doesn't like to travel or move, constantly complaining about needing a bath or a good meal. But in the inside, Bilbo longs for adventure. He is resourceful, lucky, adventurous, and quite brave. The events that he finds himself in help illustrate and bring out this "hidden" talent or personality trait.

Make a list of POSSIBLE events or problems that your new character can face. Use some of your world design or map to come up with both physical challenges as well as mental or spiritual ones. Make a huge list in your journal of possible events that will help bring out your character's inner-personlity.

4th period we will be moving next door to take our quiz and continue reading the Hobbit. Please bring your books and journals with you.