For example, if a defining aspect of your story is the protagonist’s redemption arc, casting a round character is essential. Their Purpose: Spotlighted vs The Spotlightįinally, the purpose of round vs flat characters is usually either to highlight the main point or a way the main point itself. The flat character is typically seen and understood from their first scene. Who is this protagonist? What defines them? What’s the driving force behind their actions? Round vs flat characters vary in this regard. Oftentimes, when writers use a round character as the lead, their personality is a key focal point of the plot. They can be a refreshing “safe” character that grounds the reader and provides a sense of stability. Their purpose or goal is unchanging, as is their character arc. They are the what-you-see-is-what-you-get type of character. Their complexities often add plot twists and surprises.įlat characters are straightforward and often down to earth. Like an onion, it takes time and patience to peel back those layers and find the core of what drives them. With these key differences between round vs flat characters established, their personality comes next. Their Personality: Complex vs Straightforward While a round character calls the shots, creates change, and is integral to the unfolding story, a flat character goes with the flow, exists through change, and is present for the revelation of the various plot points. Flat characters are steady-they do not change and are more so an addition to the plot than a focal point of the plot. Round characters are dynamic-they push the story along and drive the action. However, looking more closely at these characteristics, one of the first aspects to take note of is the type of presence they bring to the story. Due to their polar opposite characteristics they automatically reveal the other's differences. In fact, they often work together extremely well as foil characters. Round vs flat characters are not at odds. With these general definitions in mind, let’s dive a bit deeper into their differences. They are often much less complicated, they do not change, and they are a steady presence throughout the plot. From the first to last page their story is filled with circumstances (internal or external) that ultimately result in their change.įlat characters are just the opposite. The primary difference between a flat character vs round character is their arc. Flat Character Examples Differences Between Round vs Flat Characters

What is the flat character