What are supporting roles in the context of books, not movies? I can't find or think of a definition...
Supporting roles are secondary in importance to the main character. The usually help the main character.
thanks
In the context of books, supporting roles refer to the secondary or minor characters who play a significant role in assisting or influencing the main character(s) and the overall storyline. These characters might not be the central focus of the narrative but serve to enhance the depth and development of the plot. They help create a more vibrant and intricate fictional world.
To find or understand supporting roles in a book, there are a few approaches you can take:
1. Read the book: By reading the book, you can identify the primary characters and observe how other characters interact with them. Supporting roles are often present in various scenes and contribute to the overall progression of the story.
2. Analyze character descriptions: Pay attention to how the author introduces and describes characters throughout the book. Supporting roles may be introduced as secondary individuals or given lesser prominence in terms of physical or emotional descriptions.
3. Observe character interactions: Take note of the interactions between the main characters and other individuals encountered in the book. Supporting roles often provide assistance, offer advice, present obstacles, or serve as a sounding board for the main character(s).
4. Look for character development: Supporting roles might undergo their own journeys or experience growth throughout the story. Though their personal development may not be the primary focus, you can identify their evolution by observing how they change or react to the events unfolding around them.
Remember that supporting roles can add depth, contribute to subplots, or even provide comic relief within a book. Their presence enriches the overall reading experience by providing additional perspectives and enhancing the main narrative.