Your Character Actions DefinitioN
By kristen overman
editor and writing teacher.
If you’re looking for a character actions definition, look no further. As a writer, you know that the characters in your stories are more than just flat archetypes. They’re real people with motivations, flaws, and desires. But how do you convey who they are beyond telling the reader explicitly? The answer is to show it through the character’s actions. And if you want a character actions definition, read on.
Character Actions Definition: A Character’s Actions Speak Louder Than Words
But what is the character actions definition? When we encounter a character in literature or on screen, our first impression often comes from what they do rather than what they say. By showing us a character’s actions, behavior, and choices, we can understand their values and beliefs without any lengthy exposition. Take Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind as an example—we know she’s headstrong and determined based on her actions of running Tara plantation and fighting for Rhett Butler’s love despite all odds. She’s gone through a lot, and the way she carries herself is clear on the page without anyone having to explain.
A good character actions definition can encompass everything from grand, sweeping choices to the tiny actions characters make. It isn’t only major plot points that reveal characterization—even small details give us insight into who someone is. A character who orders something simple but classy at a restaurant could be seen as sensible and frugal. One who chooses something more extravagant may seem extraverted and flamboyant.
Even when a character does nothing at all, like sitting alone on a park bench watching the world go by, tells us something about them. You don’t need to make grand gestures, a character actions definition can clarify your central or ancillary character for readers in small moments, too.
A Character’s Actions Can Change Over Time
The best characters remain dynamic throughout the story arc—their choices evolve as they experience new things or face different challenges that impact their beliefs or values. Maybe they used to be quite reserved but eventually open up to others due to some life-changing event. Or perhaps they start off as carefree and reckless then become more responsible after making some wrong decisions along the way and tasting the repercussions.
Showing these changes in behavior highlights a character's growth both emotionally and physically throughout the narrative. Your character actions definition should include changes in their choices as the story progresses.
Overall, showing your readers your character’s actions instead of telling them allows you to connect with them on a deeper level—it gives them insight into who they are beyond surface descriptions written in black-and-white prose. (You’ll want to show not tell.) Remember that no action is too small if it helps you convey who someone is—it all depends on how much detail you want to include for each individual character in your story!
A solid character actions definition? By using thoughtfully crafted actions throughout your story arc, you can make sure that your character arc and actions help them come alive in all their multi-dimensional glory.
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Are you ready to take your story to the next level? Kristen Overman is here to help you! She's an experienced editor with expertise in middle grade and young adult fiction, picture books, adult fiction, and memoir. She can work with you to develop your plot, characters, and narrative voice, as well as assist in the brainstorming and outlining stages of your project.