C is for Character

Summary

The article reflects on the nature of character, both in individuals and fictional entities, and its capacity for change, drawing on examples from the author's personal experiences with entertainment and writing.

Abstract

The article "C is for Character" delves into the concept of character as a defining attribute of individuals, including people, animals, and even entities like governments and religions. It ponders whether character is fixed or malleable, referencing the author's recent viewing of "WandaVision" and their own writing endeavors. The author questions the influence of art on character development, suggesting a reciprocal relationship where art influences individuals and, in turn, individuals' evolving characters influence their art. The piece also touches on the diversity of character types, from dynamic individuals who embrace change to static ones who prefer consistency, and speculates on the evolutionary benefits of character diversity for humanity's survival.

Opinions

The author believes that character is a defining feature that distinguishes individuals and can apply to more than just people and animals.
Watching "WandaVision" and engaging in writing have led the author to consider the role of characters in storytelling and their potential to change.
The author posits that art may have a bidirectional influence on character, both shaping and being shaped by an individual's personality and experiences.
There is a suggestion that being dynamic or static in character is not inherently better or worse, but rather a matter of personal preference and circumstance.
The article hints at the idea that the diversity of characters, much like genetic diversity, can be beneficial for the resilience of the human species.
The author expresses a personal view that a variety of character types is necessary for a well-rounded society, akin to needing different kinds of people to make a planet.

Can we find the ability to change it?

Character is usually something we think about in terms of our entertainment. Are your favorite characters the ones that change or the ones that don’t? How does your character determine who you are?

Character is an attribute. It is a way that we define who we are. It is the features that distinguish how we are individuals. People, animals, and businesses can all have character. Can governments or religion be defined by attributes like this too?

I have been watching WandaVision this week in my free time. The show has some crazy characters. I have also been writing at every moment that it is possible. I have developed my own characters for my story. I know from my college writing classes that characters are usually meant to do something. Not always. Does art change our character or our fictional characters? Do we change who we are based on outside influences like art? Does that then influence our art?

I know we aren’t all the same. Just like characters in a book, some of us are dynamic. We change constantly. Others like to be more static. They are happy with themselves and expect the other characters of their world to fit in with them. Is there a right approach? Is one way better than another?

I have heard some research lately that these are traits that have served us well over the years. How can things like differences in character help our species survive challenges? Has it happened before? Will it happen again?

I think most of us might agree that it takes all kinds of people to make a planet. I am not sure. I have not finished making any planets yet.

Chris

C is for Character

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