Characters Essays

A guide on how to write strong female characters.

Should your character kick the dog, save the cat, or ignore them both, and in any case what does that mean?

Naming characters can take up a huge chunk of a writer’s time. Here are some useful things to consider when undergoing the task.

An exploration of the different types of character arcs, including gradual, sudden, deliberate, and non-existent character change.

An exploration of the different types of antagonists, including evil, opposing, superior, and internal antagonists.

Every character has one, but writing a backstory is not always as easy as it sounds.

How do you create humorous characters? Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make a start.

A series looking at common storytelling tropes in literature. This essay looks at absent parents, and how to use, avoid or subvert them.

Finding character names can present considerable challenges. Here are a few tips to help you to surmount those hurdles.

A series looking at common tropes in storytelling. This essay looks at kicking the dog and how to use or avoid it.