A Writer's Guide to Characterization: Archetypes, Heroic Journeys, and Other Elements of Dynamic Character Development

by Victoria Lynn Schmidt

Overview

Develop compelling character arcs using the power of myth!

In the best novels, characters undergo dramatic changes that keep readers turning pages. A Writer's Guide to Characterization shows you how to develop such meaningful character arcs in your own work—stories of transformation that will resonate with readers long after the story ends.

In this comprehensive guide, author Victoria Lynn Schmidt examines cross-cultural archetypes to illustrate how they can make your work more powerful and compelling. Plus, you'll learn how to draw from Jungian psychology to add complexity and believability to your characters.

Schmidt also provides:

 • 40 lessons on character development (with examples from well-known films and novels) that you can apply to your own work
 • Questionnaires and exercises to help you select male and female archetypes and adapt them to your story
 • 15 classic animal archetypes (including the coyote, snake, tiger, and butterfly) you can use to build convincing character profiles


With A Writer's Guide to Characterization, you'll have the information you need to infuse the development of your characters with drama and authenticity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781599635576
Publisher:	Penguin Publishing Group
Publication date:	08/27/2012
Pages:	218
Sales rank:	614,031
Product dimensions:	5.40(w) x 8.30(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Victoria Lynn Schmidt is recognized internationally as a journey & archetype guru for the creative writer. She is the author of Advanced Writing Techniques, Book in a Month, Story Structure Architect, and 45 Master Characters.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Part 1 Archetypes & How they Interact

Chapter 1 Female Heroes and Villains 7

Chapter 2 Female Interactions 19

Chapter 3 Male Heroes & Villains 35

Chapter 4 Male Interactions 46

Chapter 5 Romantic Relationships 59

Part 2 Animal Archetypes

Chapter 6 Animals as Archetypes 123

Chapter 7 The Bear: Patience & Connection 128

Chapter 8 The Buffalo: Gratitude & Trust 136

Chapter 9 The Cougar: Assertiveness & Mastery 142

Chapter 10 The Coyote: Curiosity & Resourcefulness 148

Chapter 11 The Deer: Innocence & Awareness 154

Chapter 12 The Dolphin: Transcendence, Harmony & Purpose 161

Chapter 13 The Fox: Cleverness & Resourcefulness 167

Chapter 14 The Horse: Freedom & Victory 172

Chapter 15 The Whale: Normalcy & Self-Acceptance 177

Chapter 16 The Wolf: Individuality & The Group Dynamic 183

Chapter 17 The Eagle: Deep Relationships & Patriotism 188

Chapter 18 The Hummingbird: Finding Inner Peace 194

Chapter 19 The Tiger: Mysticism & Kingship 199

Chapter 20 The Snake: Transformation, Death & Rebirth 204

Chapter 21 The Butterfly: Joyful Transformation 209