Most one-dimensional characters have only one or two personality traits, lack depth, and do not defy the straightforward definitions that define them. They are fairly straightforward characters with one- or two-dimensional personalities. What is a flat character?Ī flat character is a simple character. By contrast, round characters are complex and undergo development, sometimes sufficiently to surprise the reader. 35-42.Flat characters are two-dimensional in that they are relatively uncomplicated and do not change throughout the course of a work. “Flat and Round Characters.” Essentials of the Theory of Fiction, edited by Michael J. Her characters are highly organized and are ready for an extended life beyond the plot of the novel. – if a character does not convince, it is flat pretending to be roundĮxample: Austen’s characters are all round or are capable of rotundity. – if a character never surprises, it is flat – see whether a character is capable of surprising in a convincing way – roundness can also happen for a single sentence only

– round characters are modified by experiences – only round characters can perform tragically and move the reader beyond humor & appropriatenessĮxample: Dickens’ characters are almost all flat, still, they don’t appear shallow (there are only few exceptions). – flat characters are best when they are comic serious or tragic ones would be a bore

(they remain unalterable in readers’ minds because they are not changed by circumstances) – they are easily remembered by the reader. (they do not need to be reintroduced, they don’t run away, they aren’t watched for development, they provide their own atmosphere) – they are useful for writers because of their convenience. – constructed around a single idea or quality Complex novels require both – flat and round characters.

Flat vs round character