What is a Flat Character | Examples and How to Write It

Flat characters often get a bad rap in storytelling. You might have heard that they’re one-dimensional, uninteresting, or merely filler in a plot. But what if I told you that flat characters play a crucial role in narrative development? In this article, we’ll dive deep into what flat character is, explore some famous examples, and learn how to write them effectively.

Defining Flat Characters

Simple, one-dimensional characters in a story that are typically characterised by a single quality are called flat characters. They play certain roles throughout the story without really developing or changing, giving them a lack of depth and complexity.

These characters are simple, predictable, and frequently represent stereotypes or archetypes. For instance, flat characters are usually the obedient sidekick, the astute mentor, or the malevolent villain.

Even if they might not undergo personal development, their dependable actions and obvious goals can stabilize and uphold the more dynamic aspects of the story, effectively advancing the plot.

Flat Characters vs. Round Characters

Simple and lacking in complexity, flat characters frequently represent a single quality or fulfil a single plot point. Flat characters stay the same throughout the narrative, in contrast to round characters who are nuanced and go through substantial development.

Characters of this kind can be especially helpful in supporting roles since they can contribute to the tale in a simple and direct way without requiring a lot of backstory or development.

By providing a sharp contrast that emphasises the story’s key themes and character arcs, their predictability can serve to emphasise the development and complexity of the main characters.

The Role of Flat Characters in Storytelling

Supporting the Main Plot

One of the most important roles of flat characters in narrative is to support the main plot. These characters, who are frequently characterised by a single quality or function, provide the story coherence and clarity.

Flat characters serve to highlight the complexity of the major characters and advance the plot by repeatedly emulating particular traits or playing specified roles.

For example, the unwavering support of a faithful sidekick can highlight the protagonist’s inner conflicts, while a persistent opponent might heighten the sense of tension and urgency. Flat characters guarantee that the plot stays concentrated and unified, facilitating the smooth progression of the main narrative.

Improving the Journey of the Protagonist

Even though they are frequently subtle, flat people are essential to strengthening the protagonist’s journey. These characters highlight the protagonist’s dynamic nature and evolution by offering a solid backdrop.

An unwavering friend or mentor, for example, acts as a constant against which the protagonist‘s changes are more noticeable. This contrast supports the protagonist’s moral and emotional growth in addition to highlighting it.

Because of their steadfast qualities, flat characters provide a sense of narrative equilibrium, making the protagonist’s journey interesting and poignant and advancing the plot in a significant way.

Examples of Flat Characters in Literature

Classic Literature

Mr. Collins in “Pride and Prejudice”: The character Mr. Collins from “Pride and Prejudice” is a prime illustration of a flat character. Throughout the book, his silliness and obsequiousness are constant, offering comedic relief and emphasising Elizabeth Bennet’s wisdom and wit.

Miss Stephanie Crawford in “To Kill a Mockingbird”: As a neighborhood gossip, Miss Stephanie Crawford’s role is minor yet significant. Her consistent behavior underscores the small-town dynamics and social attitudes in Maycomb.

Modern Literature

Cinna in “The Hunger Games”: Cinna, the stylist for Katniss Everdeen, is presented with unflinching inventiveness and kindness. Though his character doesn’t really grow, Katniss depends heavily on his unwavering support.

Bruce the Shark in “Finding Nemo”: Bruce’s single characteristic—his struggle with being a vegetarian shark—adds humor and a unique twist to the story without requiring depth or complexity....Continue reading