What is the difference between round and flat characters exactly. I think i know a little but i am a bit confused.
Flat characters are two dimensional. They do not develop. The reader does not know what they are feeling or what they want; they are pretty much there for the "round", "developing" character to play off of. The round character develops, changes, as the story develops. The story is about this growth.
Round characters are the main characters the author tells us a lot about. We feel that we really know them. Flat characters are more like acquaintances. The author doesn't tell us much about them so we don't feel we know them.
Check this site for more information.
http://fictionwriting.about.com/od/glossary/g/RoundCharacter.htm
The terms "round" and "flat" characters are commonly used in literature to describe different types of characters. A round character is a three-dimensional and complex character that displays a range of emotions, experiences personal growth, and has a well-developed personality. On the other hand, a flat character is two-dimensional and lacks depth, often serving a specific purpose or function without significant change or growth throughout the story.
To understand the difference more clearly, let's look at how you can identify round characters:
1. Complexity: Round characters have a depth that makes them seem like real people. They possess a combination of virtues, flaws, and contradictions, making them multi-faceted and interesting.
2. Development: Round characters undergo change or growth throughout the story. They may learn from their experiences, develop new perspectives, or challenge their beliefs. Their journey contributes to the overall narrative.
3. Emotions: Round characters exhibit a range of emotions and have a complex inner life. Their actions and decisions are driven by desires, fears, motivations, or conflicts, making them relatable and human-like.
For example, in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," the character of Frodo Baggins is a round character. He starts as an innocent hobbit and embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the One Ring. Throughout the story, Frodo faces countless challenges that test his courage, loyalty, and moral strength, ultimately transforming him.
On the other hand, flat characters are less developed and usually serve a specific purpose in the story, such as representing a stereotype, functioning as a plot device, or serving as a backdrop to the main narrative. Flat characters may lack depth and remain relatively unchanged throughout the story. Their traits are often simplified, making them predictable and less complex.
An example of a flat character is Draco Malfoy in J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series. Draco consistently portrays himself as a privileged and arrogant antagonist throughout the books, without significant growth or insights into his character.
Understanding the contrast between round and flat characters can enhance your analysis of a story by identifying the depth and complexity of different characters, contributing to a richer understanding and interpretation of the text.