Cover Writing great characters 5 lessons from modern novels Now Novel (940x940)
Table of Contents
What are character backstories?
Character backstory is the personal history of a character that explains their motivations, personality, and behavior. It’s the events that shaped a character before the story begins. Backstories can include anything from family history, childhood experiences, significant life events, and more.
Why are character backstories important?
Character backstories are essential because they make characters more relatable and believable. They give readers an insight into a character’s past and help them understand why they are the way they are. Backstories can also add depth to a story, making it more engaging and interesting. When readers understand a character's backstory, they can become more invested in their journey and the plot.
How to create a character backstory?
To create a character backstory, start by asking yourself questions about your character’s past. Here are some questions to consider: - What was their childhood like? - What significant events happened to them that shaped who they are today? - Who were their role models growing up? - What are their greatest fears and insecurities? - What are their goals and aspirations? - What is their family history? - What is their relationship history? - What are their hobbies and interests? As you answer these questions, keep in mind that a backstory should be relevant to the story you’re telling. It should explain the character’s motivations and behaviors in the present.
How to use a character backstory in writing?
Using a character backstory in writing can be done in several ways. Here are a few examples: - Use it to explain a character’s motivation: If a character has a traumatic past, their actions in the story might be motivated by their desire to avoid similar situations. - Use it to create tension: If a character has a secret from their past, it can create tension and conflict when that secret is revealed. - Use it to show character growth: By referencing a character’s past, you can show how they’ve changed and grown throughout the story. - Use it to create empathy: If a character has a relatable backstory, readers can empathize with them and become more invested in their journey. When using a backstory in writing, it’s important to avoid dumping all the information at once. Instead, weave it into the story gradually, revealing details as they become relevant.
Examples of well-written character backstories
One great example of a well-written character backstory is the character of Harry Potter in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Harry’s tragic childhood, including the death of his parents, is central to the story and explains his motivations and actions throughout the series. Another example is the character of Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Gatsby’s backstory of poverty and unrequited love is revealed gradually, adding depth to his character and creating tension in the story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, character backstories are an essential part of creating relatable and well-rounded characters. By understanding a character’s past, readers can become more invested in their journey and the story as a whole. When crafting a backstory, it’s essential to keep it relevant to the story and reveal details gradually. By following these guidelines, you can create compelling characters that will resonate with readers.
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