Words With Impact: Discern Typology Character

Workshop: Discover Words That Sing

“Chart how each symbol you use changes over the course of the story.” John Truby

Character Typology

Does this character description remind you of anyone in particular?

-on top of the power hierarchy but his power is not boundless

-can be still be opposed, deceived, and tricked although dangerous to do so

-in a long term marriage but has endless affairs

-does not participate in petty arguments and schemes of daily activities

-can be extremely vengeful

Based on familiar movies, my first response might be a dictator or a CEO of a vast financial/business empire, or a James Bond 007 villain. But these are some of the characteristics given in Greek mythology to Zeus. Somehow they still sound quite modern. Truby notes that the character Tracy Lord in The Philadelphia Story can be compared to a goddess, not only because of her beauty and grace but also her coldness and fierce sense of superiority to others.”

Each genre also has its own special qualities for heroes. A place to begin might be to list what you consider to be heroic qualities. Are you looking for a Batman or a John Wayne, or is your hero a parent who shows up every day. What do you consider to be the difference between a hero and a role model? These questions will help you decide where to look for the ‘types’ that will best flavor your novel with the right added depth whether you are looking in characters, plots, or setting.

Action Steps:

 Example: In New Testament scriptures Peter was named the Rock, and the promise given that Christ’s church would be build upon him. In ancient Israel a strong foundation meant a rock foundation, both for the Temple of worship and for any military protective walls. Peter’s new name as symbol echoed his past history and bridged into his new character and role.

 From modern culture, Rocky Balboa does not seem to fit his name at the beginning of his story but like Peter grew into it. What traits did he build upon to become his name?

1.     Make a list of your character’s traits, positive and negative.

2.     Note where the change points are. Choose one and make a list of possible symbols that define that particular action or emotion.

3.     Then list as many variations of that symbol as possible.

4.     Use John Truby’s opening quote and make a chart of your choices.

Share: Did you discover more positive or negative options? Did any surprise you?

Read deep, marcy