The Role of Character Motivation in Plot Development

Have you ever read a story in which the characters seemed flat or unconvincing? Most likely, their motivation was vague or nonexistent. In storytelling, character motivation serves as the driving force behind the plot. Without it, the story becomes a lifeless collection of occurrences. So, what makes character motivation so important? Let’s look at why it’s the foundation of good story development.

What is Character Motivation?

Character motivation describes the reasons behind a character’s actions, decisions, and behaviors. It answers the most important question: why does this character do what they do. Motivation can come from personal desires, external influences, or a combination of the two.

Types of Character Motivation

Internal Motivation

Internal motivation is character motivation that stems from inner goals, feelings, or internal conflicts. It arises from the character’s desires for themselves, such as accomplishing a dream, conquering fear, or discovering self-acceptance. This motive frequently leads to intriguing character arcs because it resonates deeply with their inner journey. For example, a character seeking personal development may confront trials that test their resilience, propelling the plot ahead while making their actions realistic and emotionally interesting....Continue reading