We Need a Hero: Writing the Ultimate Hero Character

Nothing captures readers' imaginations quite like a well-crafted hero. This article will cover:

1. Who is the Hero (vs. "Main Character" and "Protagonist") - hint, they're not always the same character
2. Why we need heroes - 3 reasons a well-crafted hero is great for your story
3. Pitfalls when writing heroes - 3 common pitfalls when writing the hero and strategies to overcome each of them
4. Types of heroes - 7 types of heroes with examples from literature, film, and TV, as well as the pitfalls and strategies for each of these
5. How to write the hero - 10 "commandments" that will help you write a well-crafted hero

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Who is the Hero (vs. Main Character and Protagonist)?

Understanding the various roles in storytelling is crucial for any writer. While the terms "hero," "main character," and "protagonist" are often used interchangeably, they each have distinct roles.

Role Clarifications

The hero is typically a person of distinguished courage or ability, admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities. The main character, on the other hand, is the central figure around whom the story revolves, and the protagonist is the character who drives the plot forward and faces the main conflict.

Are They Always the Same?

In many stories, the hero, main character, and protagonist are the same person. However, this is not always the case. For example, in "The Great Gatsby," Gatsby is the hero, Nick Carraway is the main character, and Gatsby could also be seen as the protagonist driving much of the narrative's conflict.

Interchangeable Yet Distinct

Understanding these distinctions will help you create layered and multifaceted characters. Not every protagonist needs to be a traditional hero, and not every story requires the main character to be heroic. This flexibility allows for richer storytelling possibilities.

Why We Need Heroes

From the dawn of storytelling, heroes have captured our imaginations, enchanting us with their bravery, wisdom, and virtue. They serve as beacons of hope, illuminating the paths we may one day tread. Heroes remind us of our potential for greatness and inspire us to confront our own challenges with courage and resilience. But beyond their individual tales of triumph, heroes fulfill a universal need—they mirror our deepest aspirations and fears, providing us with a lens through which to explore the complexities of the human spirit. So why do we need heroes? Let's delve into the age-old allure of these larger-than-life figures and discover their indispensable role in our narratives.

1. Heroes Inspire and Motivate

A well-crafted hero serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for readers. Through their courageous deeds and noble qualities, heroes encourage us to aspire to our own greatness and tackle life’s challenges with bravery. They embody ideals and virtues that we admire and wish to emulate, offering a sense of direction and purpose. Think of characters like Harry Potter or Katniss Everdeen; their resilience and strength in the face of overwhelming odds genuinely motivate us to believe in the possibility of triumph and justice.

2. Heroes Drive the Plot Forward

At the heart of any compelling narrative is conflict, and a hero often serves as the catalyst for this engagement. Their goals, struggles, and decisions propel the story, creating a dynamic and captivating plot. Without a hero to navigate the narrative, stories can quickly become directionless and uninspired. Heroes provide the necessary momentum to keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to see what happens next. From Odysseus’ journey in “The Odyssey” to Frodo’s quest in “The Lord of the Rings,” heroes ensure that the tale unfolds with purpose and momentum.

3. Heroes Provide Emotional Depth

Heroes bring an essential human element to stories that heavily involves readers on an emotional level. Through their experiences, vulnerabilities, and triumphs, we can explore complex emotions and conflicts. These characters face myriad challenges, making their victories and even their failures profoundly impactful. By allowing readers to experience a spectrum of emotions—from joy to sorrow, fear to pride—heroes create a deep, satisfying emotional connection. For instance, the journey of Elizabeth Bennet in "Pride and Prejudice" not only advances the narrative but also explores themes of love, prejudice, and personal growth, enriching the reader’s emotional journey.

Pitfalls When Writing the Hero

Creating a memorable hero is no small feat, and several common pitfalls can derail even the most well-intentioned writer. Below are some of the bigger challenges you might face and strategies for overcoming them to ensure your hero remains compelling and engaging.

1. Perfect Hero Syndrome

Context: A hero portrayed without flaws or vulnerabilities can quickly become unrelatable and unrealistic. Perfect heroes lack depth and can disengage readers, as they present unattainable ideals.

Strategy: To avoid this, allow your hero to possess both strengths and weaknesses. Delve into their fears, doubts, and personal struggles. A hero's vulnerabilities make them more human and relatable. For instance, in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire," Tyrion Lannister’s wit is balanced by his physical limitations and complex emotional insecurities.

2. Lack of Clear Motivation

Context: If your hero lacks clear goals or motivations, their actions and decisions may feel arbitrary, leading to a disjointed narrative. Heroes without purpose can render the story aimless and unsatisfying.

Strategy: Clearly establish your hero's motivations, and ensure they align with the story's central conflict. Develop a backstory that explains why these goals are important to them. Katniss Everdeen in "The Hunger Games" is driven by her desire to protect her family, a motivation that constantly influences her choices and actions throughout the series.

3. Inconsistent Character Development

Context: Inconsistencies in your hero's behaviour, skills, or values can confuse readers and break the story’s believability. A hero that suddenly changes without reason can disrupt immersion and diminish emotional investment.

Strategy: Maintain consistent character development by mapping out your hero’s journey and evolution. Understand how their experiences throughout the story shape their growth. In J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter" series, Harry’s development from an insecure boy into a confident leader is gradual and consistently tied to the events he encounters and the lessons he learns along the way.

Avoiding these pitfalls will help ensure your hero remains a layered, dynamic, and captivating character that resonates deeply with your readers.

Types of Heroes

There are various types of heroes that you can incorporate into your story, each bringing unique elements to the narrative. Here are seven types to consider:

1. Classic Hero - noble, brave, steadfast
2. Anti-Hero - flawed, selfish, cynical, morally ambiguous
3. Reluctant Hero - an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances
4. Tragic Hero - fatal flaw that leads to downfall, can't escape their fate
5. Byronic Hero - charismatic, moody, introspective, dark secrets, disdain for societal norms
6. Epic Hero - larger-than-life, grand quests, monumental challenges
7. Unlikely Hero - underestimated, overlooked, rises to the occasion

The Classic Hero

The classic hero embodies noble qualities such as bravery, altruism, and a sense of duty. They often face significant challenges but remain steadfast in their resolve.

Examples from Literature, Film, or TV: The classic hero is a staple in many beloved stories. In literature, one iconic example is Atticus Finch from Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird." Atticus exemplifies courage and morality, standing up for what is right even when faced with societal disapproval and personal risk. In film, Luke Skywalker from "Star Wars" serves as a quintessential classic hero. He begins as a farm boy and rises to become a Jedi Knight, showcasing bravery, self-sacrifice, and a deep sense of duty to the greater good.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Classic Hero:

1. Overly Idealistic Portrayal:

Pitfall: A common pitfall when writing the classic hero is making them overly idealistic to the point of being unbelievable. Such characters can come across as one-dimensional and fail to resonate with readers who seek more complex and nuanced characters.

Strategy: To avoid this, make sure your classic hero faces moral dilemmas that test their principles. Show moments of doubt or struggle where their beliefs are challenged. By presenting these situations, you can add depth to the hero’s character and make their eventual triumph more satisfying. For instance, in "Les Misérables," Jean Valjean's transformation from a hardened criminal to a compassionate benefactor highlights the complexity of his moral journey.

2. Predictable Story Arcs:

Pitfall: The journey of a classic hero can sometimes feel predictable due to the archetypal nature of their story arcs. This predictability can lessen the emotional impact of the narrative and reduce reader engagement.

Strategy: To circumvent this, introduce unexpected twists and secondary characters that add complexity to the story. Use subplots to enhance the main narrative and provide opportunities for the hero to grow in unexpected ways. For instance, in Suzanne Collins’ "The Hunger Games," Katniss Everdeen’s interactions with characters like Peeta Mellark and Haymitch Abernathy add layers to her character and her heroic journey, keeping the narrative fresh and intriguing.

3. Imbalance between Hero's Actions and Personal Growth:

Pitfall: Another pitfall is focusing too much on the hero's external actions while neglecting their internal development. A hero who achieves great deeds without corresponding personal growth can seem static and less relatable.

Strategy: Balance the hero’s physical or external challenges with internal conflicts and personal growth. Show how the hero evolves in their beliefs, relationships, and self-awareness as they confront their external challenges. For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," Aragorn's journey is not just about reclaiming his throne but also about accepting his identity and his responsibilities, providing a rich layer of internal development alongside the epic quest.

By carefully avoiding these pitfalls and employing targeted strategies, you can write a classic hero who is not only noble and inspiring but also deeply engaging and complex, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels with your audience.

The Anti-Hero

Anti-heroes are flawed characters who may lack traditional heroic qualities. They often exhibit selfishness, cynicism, or moral ambiguity but still manage to achieve heroic outcomes.

Examples from Literature, Film, or TV: Anti-heroes offer a refreshing departure from the archetypal classic hero. Tony Soprano from "The Sopranos" is a prime example from television; a mob boss who struggles with his personal and professional issues, offering a complex character study marked by moral conflicts and personal weaknesses. In literature, Patrick Bateman from Bret Easton Ellis's "American Psycho" presents a chilling anti-hero whose narrative is unsettling yet engrossing. In film, Jack Sparrow from the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series embodies the anti-hero with his roguish charm, opportunistic behaviour, and a code of ethics that sways with the tides.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Anti-Hero:

1. Lack of Relatability:

Pitfall: Anti-heroes can sometimes become so flawed and morally ambiguous that they fail to elicit sympathy or relatability from readers or viewers.

Strategy: To mitigate this, give your anti-hero relatable motivations or redeeming qualities. Create backstory elements that explain their behaviour and evoke empathy. For example, Walter White from "Breaking Bad" starts his journey as a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer due to his desperate situation with terminal cancer, offering a motive that many can understand even if they don’t condone his actions.

2. Risk of Celebrating Negative Traits:

Pitfall: There is a risk that anti-heroes could come off as glorifying negative traits like selfishness, deceit, or violence, potentially sending unintended messages.

Strategy: Balance the narrative by showing the consequences of the anti-hero's actions, both morally and practically. Show moments of vulnerability or regret to highlight the internal conflicts they face. In "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn, the character of Amy Dunne commits numerous manipulative and criminal acts, yet the narrative exposes the destructive impact of her behaviour on herself and others around her, without glorifying her actions.

3. Inconsistent Behaviour:

Pitfall: The ambiguity in an anti-hero’s morals or actions can sometimes lead to inconsistencies that confuse the audience about the character’s true nature.

Strategy: Provide clear internal logic and rules that govern the anti-hero’s actions. Develop a coherent and consistent psychological profile, even if it's not traditionally heroic. In the show "Dexter," the titular character Dexter Morgan follows a strict personal code to only kill other murderers, offering a consistency in his complex moral universe, despite his overall moral ambiguity.

By understanding these pitfalls and employing targeted strategies, you can craft an anti-hero who is intriguing, multi-faceted, and ultimately engaging, compelling your audience to remain invested in their conflicted journey.

The Reluctant Hero

The reluctant hero is typically an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances. They may initially resist the call to action but eventually rise to the occasion.

Examples from Literature, Film, or TV: The reluctant hero archetype can be found in various forms across different media, providing narratives rich in character development and emotional depth. One of the most iconic examples is Frodo Baggins from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." Initially hesitant and unsure of his ability to bear the One Ring, Frodo grows into his role out of necessity and loyalty, displaying resilience and bravery. In film, Neo from "The Matrix" starts as an ordinary hacker who is wary of accepting his destiny as "The One." His journey from reluctance to acceptance is marked by a deepening understanding of his purpose and the stakes involved. On television, Buffy Summers from "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" epitomizes the reluctant hero; she resists her destined role as the Slayer initially, longing for a normal life, yet continually rises to face the supernatural threats plaguing her world.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Reluctant Hero:

1. Prolonged Reluctance:

Pitfall: Extending the hero's reluctance too long can frustrate readers or viewers, making them lose interest in the character's journey.

Strategy: Balance the character's hesitation with compelling reasons for their eventual acceptance of the heroic role. Introduce incremental challenges that force them to confront their fears and doubts. For example, in "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" by J.K. Rowling, Harry is initially uncertain about his place in the wizarding world, but the unfolding mystery and threats compel him to step into his role.

2. Lack of Character Growth:

Pitfall: A reluctant hero who does not evolve can come across as static and unengaging, diminishing the impact of the story.

Strategy: Highlight the internal and external changes the character undergoes throughout their journey. Show how their relationships, beliefs, and self-perception evolve. Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars" grows from a farm boy unsure of his destiny into a confident Jedi Knight through his trials and connections with other characters.

3. Overcoming Reluctance Too Quickly:

Pitfall: If the hero overcomes their reluctance too swiftly, it can feel unearned and reduce the emotional weight of their transformation.

Strategy: Allow the character's acceptance of their role to unfold naturally, with adequate internal and external pressures. Use moments of introspection, guidance from mentors, and pivotal events to drive their transformation. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Peter Parker (Spider-Man) in "Spider-Man: Homecoming" faces multiple setbacks and crucial lessons before fully embracing his identity as a superhero.

By carefully navigating these pitfalls and incorporating strategic elements, you can create a reluctant hero who is not only relatable and engaging but also compelling in their journey from ordinary to extraordinary. Their transformation resonates deeply with audiences, drawing them into a narrative rich with emotional and developmental nuances.

The Tragic Hero

A tragic hero is marked by a fatal flaw or mistake that leads to their downfall. Despite their best efforts, they cannot escape their fate, making their story deeply poignant.

Examples from Literature, Film, or TV: The tragic hero archetype is a staple in storytelling, enriching narratives with intense emotional depth and moral complexity. One of the most enduring examples is Oedipus from Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex." Oedipus is a noble and intelligent man doomed by a prophecy and his own actions, leading to his ultimate downfall. In film, Michael Corleone from "The Godfather" trilogy exemplifies a modern tragic hero; his ascent to power and subsequent moral corruption result in devastating personal losses and his eventual isolation. On television, Walter White from "Breaking Bad" presents an intricate portrait of a tragic hero. Initially a mild-mannered chemistry teacher, Walter's descent into the criminal underworld is driven by a mix of desperation, pride, and a quest for power, culminating in tragic consequences for himself and those around him.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Tragic Hero:

1. Overemphasis on Doom and Gloom:

Pitfall: Dwelling too heavily on the tragic aspects can make the narrative feel overly bleak and alienate readers or viewers.

Strategy: Balance the story with moments of levity, hope, or redemption, even if fleeting, to provide emotional contrast and prevent the narrative from becoming monotonous. For instance, in "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare, the character of Macbeth experiences temporary moments of triumph and introspection that break the relentless march towards his downfall, enhancing the overall emotional impact.

2. One-Dimensional Tragic Flaw:

Pitfall: Focusing on a single flaw can make the tragic hero seem simplistic and unrelatable, reducing their complexity.

Strategy: Develop a nuanced character profile with multiple attributes and contradictions. Show how their strengths are intertwined with their weaknesses, leading to more layered and compelling storytelling. In "Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller, Willy Loman's tragic flaw is not just his delusional optimism but also his deep-seated insecurities and desire for validation, making his character feel multi-dimensional.

3. Predictable Downfall:

Pitfall: If the hero's downfall follows too predictable a path, it can diminish the story's suspense and emotional engagement.

Strategy: Introduce unexpected twists and moral dilemmas that complicate the hero's journey. Make their downfall feel both inevitable and surprising by threading in unforeseen events or revelations. In "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare, Hamlet's downfall is punctuated by moments of hesitation, madness, and unexpected betrayal, adding layers of complexity to his tragic end.

4. Lack of Sympathy:

Pitfall: If the tragic hero's actions are too reprehensible, the audience may find it hard to empathize with them.

Strategy: Ensure that the hero's motivations and internal struggles are relatable, even if their actions are questionable. Provide moments of vulnerability that humanize them and evoke empathy. In "Breaking Bad," despite Walter White’s morally ambiguous actions, his initial struggle with terminal cancer and the desire to provide for his family create a foundation for emotional connection with the audience.

By carefully navigating these pitfalls and employing detailed strategies, you can create a tragic hero whose journey is as poignant as it is complex. Their stories offer deep insights into the human condition, drawing audiences into a rich tapestry of triumphs and inevitable downfalls, much like the inexorable passage of time itself.

The Byronic Hero

Named after the poet Lord Byron, the Byronic hero is charismatic, moody, and introspective. They often harbor dark secrets and exhibit a disdain for societal norms.

Examples from Literature, Film, or TV: 

The Byronic hero archetype adds a layer of intrigue and complexity to narratives, drawing audiences with their enigmatic blend of charm and brooding intensity. One of the most prominent examples in literature is Heathcliff from Emily Brontë’s "Wuthering Heights." Heathcliff's dark, tortured soul and his obsessive love for Catherine Earnshaw typify the qualities of a Byronic hero, making him both fascinating and tragic. In film, you can see the Byronic hero in characters like Bruce Wayne in "The Dark Knight" trilogy. His brooding nature, haunted past, and pursuit of justice outside the societal norms create a compelling, multidimensional protagonist. On television, Don Draper from "Mad Men" embodies the Byronic hero through his charismatic yet deeply flawed persona, struggling with inner demons and a murky past that continually shapes his actions and relationships.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Byronic Hero:

1. Overly Cynical or Unlikable:

Pitfall: Making the Byronic hero excessively cynical or reprehensible can alienate the audience, stripping the character of relatability.

Strategy: Balance their darker traits with redeeming qualities or moments of vulnerability. Show glimpses of their inner turmoil and the underlying reasons behind their actions. For instance, while Severus Snape from the "Harry Potter" series often behaves callously, his complex history and ultimate acts of sacrifice reveal a deeply conflicted character, evoking empathy from the audience.

2. Lack of Character Growth:

Pitfall: A Byronic hero who remains static can become monotonous and predictable, as their brooding nature needs dynamic context to stay engaging.

Strategy: Introduce a journey of personal growth, even if subtle. Allow the character to evolve in response to significant events and relationships. For example, Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series "Sherlock" demonstrates evolving self-awareness and emotional depth, particularly in his interactions with John Watson and his handling of personal relationships.

3. Overemphasis on Melancholy:

Pitfall: Dwelling too much on the hero's melancholic nature can weigh down the narrative, making it feel overly depressive.

Strategy: Utilize moments of wit, brilliance, or unexpected levity to break the pervasive gloom. Characters like Dr. Gregory House from "House" exhibit sharp intellect and biting humor, creating a multidimensional personality that keeps audiences intrigued despite his often dour demeanor.

4. Stereotypical Rebellion:

Pitfall: Making the Byronic hero rebel against societal norms without clear motivation can come across as cliché and unconvincing.

Strategy: Clearly articulate the personal or ideological reasons behind their defiance. Deepen their character by showcasing internal conflicts and the philosophical beliefs driving their actions. In the character of Rick Grimes from "The Walking Dead," his rebellion against established norms is fueled by a profound need to protect his loved ones, presenting a believable and sympathetic rationale for his actions.

By tactfully navigating these pitfalls and applying nuanced strategies, you can craft a Byronic hero who captivates audiences with their intricate blend of charm, darkness, and complexity. Their compelling journeys invite viewers and readers to explore the intriguing intersection of allure and introspection, much like the untamed and enigmatic landscapes that they often inhabit.

The Epic Hero

Epic heroes are larger-than-life characters who undertake grand quests and face monumental challenges. Think of characters like Odysseus or Beowulf.

Epic heroes often embark on legendary adventures that transport audiences to fantastical worlds filled with extraordinary challenges and awe-inspiring feats. Odysseus from Homer's "The Odyssey" is a quintessential example of the epic hero. His journey is marked by cunning, bravery, and resilience as he faces mythical creatures and divine obstacles to return to Ithaca. Similarly, Beowulf's monumental battles against the monster Grendel and the dragon showcase his superhuman strength and unyielding courage, defining qualities of epic heroes.

In modern literature and film, characters like Aragorn from "The Lord of the Rings" epitomize the epic hero. Aragorn's quest to reclaim his throne and unite Middle-earth against the forces of Sauron is filled with perilous journeys and heroic valor. In "Star Wars," Luke Skywalker represents the epic hero's journey, evolving from a humble farm boy to a Jedi knight who balances the force and restores peace to the galaxy.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Epic Hero:

1. Overpowered or Unrealistic Abilities:

Pitfall: An epic hero with overly exaggerated abilities can break the suspension of disbelief, making their feats seem implausible.

Strategy: Ground their extraordinary skills in extensive training, unique heritage, or mystical aid. Highlight their vulnerabilities and moments of uncertainty. Kaladin Stormblessed from Brandon Sanderson's "The Stormlight Archive" demonstrates greatness rooted in personal struggle and development alongside his powers, making him a relatable epic hero.

2. Lack of Relatability:

Pitfall: Epic heroes can sometimes come across as too distant or perfect, alienating the audience.

Strategy: Infuse personal flaws, relatable goals, and emotional depth into their character. Show their internal conflicts and moral dilemmas. Harry Potter’s heroism in J.K. Rowling’s series is balanced with his fears, doubts, and the relatable struggles of growing up, despite his extraordinary destiny.

3. Predictability in Plot:

Pitfall: Epic hero narratives can follow a formulaic path, becoming predictable and monotonous.

Strategy: Introduce twists, subvert traditional tropes, and create unexpected challenges. George R.R. Martin’s "A Song of Ice and Fire" series often subverts reader expectations with unforeseen events that add complexity to characters like Jon Snow, who embodies epic heroism through his unexpected lineage and moral choices.

4. Overshadowing Supporting Characters:

Pitfall: The grandiosity of an epic hero can eclipse other characters, making the narrative one-dimensional.

Strategy: Develop a strong supporting cast with their own arcs and contributions to the hero's journey. In "The Wheel of Time" by Robert Jordan, Rand al'Thor's epic journey is complemented by the rich development of supporting characters like Mat Cauthon and Perrin Aybara, enriching the overall narrative.

By skillfully navigating these pitfalls and employing detailed strategies, you can create an epic hero whose journey resonates deeply with audiences. Their tales of bravery, sacrifice, and perseverance draw readers and viewers into epic narratives that transcend time and culture, much like the timeless tales of old that continue to capture the imagination.

The Unlikely Hero

Unlikely heroes are those who defy expectations. They may lack conventional heroic traits but surprise everyone, including themselves, with their courage and resourcefulness.

Frodo Baggins from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" is a prime example of an unlikely hero. Frodo is not a warrior or a powerful sorcerer; he's just a humble hobbit. Despite his unassuming nature and the immense weight of bearing the One Ring, Frodo's bravery and determination shine through as he navigates treacherous lands, faces dark forces, and resists the corruptive allure of the Ring. This dimension of his character allows audiences to connect with him on a deeply personal level, seeing their own potential for greatness mirrored in his journey.

Similarly, Katniss Everdeen from Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games" series defies the conventional hero archetype. Initially, she is just a girl trying to survive in a dystopian society, motivated by her desire to protect her sister. Katniss evolves into a symbol of rebellion and hope, driven by her compassion, cunning, and fierce independence. Her character's relatability lies in her imperfections and the emotional and moral dilemmas she encounters, traits that make her rise to heroism both believable and compelling.

Pitfalls and Strategies Unique to Writing the Unlikely Hero:

1. Lack of Clear Motivation:

Pitfall: An unlikely hero without a clear driving force may come across as passive or as simply a vessel for the plot.

Strategy: Provide strong, personal stakes that push them into action. Highlight their inner conflicts and gradual transformation. In Tom Wolfe's "The Right Stuff," astronaut John Glenn's unlikely ascent from a humble background is powered by his unwavering determination and sense of duty, providing depth and relatability.

2. Overemphasis on Ordinary Traits:

Pitfall: Focusing too heavily on their ordinariness can make them seem unremarkable or dull.

Strategy: Balance their common qualities with moments of extraordinary insight, courage, or ingenuity. For instance, Walter White from "Breaking Bad" starts as a simple chemistry teacher, but his transformation into a cunning drug kingpin reveals an unexpected brilliance and resilience.

3. Predictable Redemption Arcs:

Pitfall: The redemption trajectory can become formulaic if not handled with nuance.

Strategy: Introduce complex moral decisions and unexpected turns in their journey. Jaime Lannister from "Game of Thrones" begins as a despised character but faces a nuanced path towards redemption, balancing his past misdeeds with moments of honor and vulnerability.

4. Oversimplified Character Growth:

Pitfall: Their growth can appear too simplistic or swift, making their hero's journey less impactful.

Strategy: Show incremental and realistic development, underscored by significant challenges and failures. In "Stranger Things," Steve Harrington’s gradual shift from a stereotypical high school bully to a protective, brave figure is marked by his evolving relationships and self-realization.

By navigating these pitfalls with careful strategies, the unlikely hero can captivate audiences with their profound journeys from ordinariness to extraordinary. Their unexpected heroism, built on relatable struggles and triumphs, draws readers and viewers into a narrative realm bursting with imagination and intrigue.

How to Write the Hero (10 Commandments)

Creating a hero that resonates with readers involves a delicate balance of traits, backstory, and development. Here are ten commandments to guide you:

1. Clear Goal with High Stakes
2. Strengths and Weaknesses
3. Wounds
4. Blind-spots
5. Backstory
6. Agency
7. Emotions
8. Personality
9. Arc
10. Vivid Description

Clear Goal with High Stakes

Your hero should have a clear goal that is both compelling and high-stakes. This goal drives the narrative and keeps readers invested. Whether it's saving the world or finding personal redemption, the stakes should matter immensely to the hero.

Strengths/Weaknesses

A well-rounded hero possesses both strengths and weaknesses. Their strengths make them capable and admirable, while their weaknesses make them relatable and human. This balance adds depth to your character.

Wounds

Wounds refer to the emotional or psychological scars that shape your hero's worldview. These can stem from past traumas, losses, or failures and often influence their motivations and actions.

Blind-spots

Blind-spots are areas where your hero lacks awareness or insight. These can lead to mistakes and conflicts, adding complexity to their character and driving the story forward.

Backstory

A rich backstory provides context for your hero's actions and decisions. It helps readers understand where they come from and why they behave the way they do. However, be careful not to overwhelm your story with too much exposition.

Agency

Your hero should have a sense of agency, making active choices that drive the plot. Passive characters who simply react to events can be frustrating for readers. Ensure your hero takes decisive actions to overcome obstacles.

Emotions

A hero who experiences a range of emotions is more relatable and engaging. Allow your hero to feel fear, joy, anger, and sorrow. These emotional journeys make their triumphs and failures more impactful.

Personality

Distinct personality traits make your hero memorable. Whether they're witty, stoic, or compassionate, these traits should be consistent and influence their interactions with other characters.

Arc

A hero's character arc is the transformation they undergo throughout the story. This could be a change in their beliefs, attitudes, or abilities. A well-defined arc makes the hero's journey satisfying and meaningful.

Vivid Description

Vivid descriptions help readers visualize your hero. Include details about their appearance, mannerisms, and voice. However, avoid lengthy physical descriptions; instead, weave these details naturally into the narrative.

Conclusion

Crafting a hero character requires a blend of creativity, insight, and meticulous planning. By understanding the different types of heroes and following the ten commandments of hero creation, you can develop a character that resonates deeply with your readers. Remember, a compelling hero not only drives the plot but also connects emotionally with the audience, making your story unforgettable.

Ready to create your ultimate hero? Start writing today and bring your unique hero to life. Happy writing!

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to creating a hero that stands the test of time. Whether you're writing your debut novel or your tenth, these tips can help you craft a character that captivates readers and leaves a lasting impression.

Resources

MY FAVORITE ALL-PURPOSE RESOURCE

The Writer's Treasure Chest - everything in one place, curated, organized, this is a great reference for all things writing craft, with tons of prompts, plot/character generators and other tools to inspire you to write a great story with complex, believable and memorably characters.

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• From Idea to Story: 3 Methods to Develop Your Story Idea 
  
  
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Frequently Asked Questions About Writing the Hero

1. What makes a hero compelling?

A compelling hero is multifaceted, with a blend of strengths and weaknesses that makes them relatable and intriguing. They face high-stakes challenges and show growth over the course of the story, which keeps readers invested in their outcome.

2. How do I give my hero a strong backstory without overwhelming the reader?

To give your hero a strong backstory, weave it gradually into the narrative rather than dumping it all at once. Use dialogue, memories, and actions to reveal key aspects of their past, ensuring it informs their present and future motivations without overwhelming the main story.

3. How should I balance my hero’s strengths and weaknesses?

Balance your hero's strengths and weaknesses by ensuring that both are integral to the plot. Their strengths should enable them to overcome obstacles, while their weaknesses add tension and potential for growth, making them more relatable and human.

4. What role do emotions play in crafting a hero?

Emotions make your hero more relatable and human. Showcasing a range of emotions—fear, joy, anger, sorrow—allows readers to connect with your hero on a deeper level. It also makes their journey and challenges feel more real and impactful.

5. How do I create a believable character arc?

A believable character arc involves gradual change and realistic growth. Start with a clear baseline for your hero and show incremental developments through their experiences, challenges, and interactions. Ensure their transformation is consistent and earned by the story’s events.

6. Can my hero have an element of mystery?

Yes, adding an element of mystery can make your hero more intriguing. This could be a hidden past, secret motivation, or unexplained ability. Reveal pieces of this mystery gradually to maintain readers' interest and curiosity.

7. How important is the hero's physical description?

While physical description helps readers visualize your hero, it should not overshadow their actions, dialogue, and inner thoughts. Include key details that are unique and relevant but weave them naturally into the story rather than providing exhaustive descriptions.

8. How do I ensure my hero's motivations are clear and compelling?

Make your hero’s motivations clear by tying them to their backstory, wounds, and desires. Ensure these motivations drive their actions and decisions, making them compelling and understandable to readers. High stakes and personal investment in the story’s outcome also add depth.

9. How much agency should my hero have?

Your hero should have significant agency, making active choices that impact the plot. They should take decisive actions, face consequences, and drive the narrative forward, rather than passively reacting to events around them.

10. Can my hero change their moral compass throughout the story?

Yes, a change in the hero’s moral compass can be a powerful element of their character arc. Show this shift through significant experiences and challenges that force them to reevaluate their beliefs and decisions, making it a natural and compelling progression in their journey.