Juxtaposing 4 Character Types

In our last post, we looked at how to use juxtaposition to contrast characters, so their traits stand out.

Today, we’re moving even further into exploring juxtaposition and how to use it with the four (4) character types you should know and understand when juxtaposing characters:

• Flat
• Round
• Static
• Dynamic

Understanding the Purpose of Each of the 4 Character Types:

Each character type is designed to serve a different purpose in your story. And character-building magic happens when you start combining them on purpose to serve your story. It really makes characterization a lot easier.

Today, instead of a long article or a series of them, I’ve provided a PowerPoint presentation I created for my own high school creative writing classes. There’s quite a bit to unpack, so I thought this would be more helpful, especially since you can download it and refer back to it during the writing process. There’s a lot to unpack!

The presentation is in PDF format. That way, you can explore it at your own pace.

 Click here to view/download the PDF: 4-CHARACTER TYPES

Inside, you’ll find:

• Definitions and examples of each character type
• YouTube links to deepen your understanding (clickable in the PDF)
• Practice questions to help you see how these character types interact

Tip:

Your protagonist should always be round, but they don’t always have to be dynamic… Not all great characters change.

Take a few minutes with the PDF and see how your current characters align. Then, try pairing opposites or reinforcing themes through character contrast.

Happy writing and juxtaposing!

~M.C. Convery