A flat character in a story is essentially a one-dimensional figure who lacks significant depth or complexity, serving a specific purpose within the narrative without undergoing substantial change.
In storytelling, characters are the driving force, bringing plots to life and connecting with the audience. Among the different types, flat characters play a vital supporting role. Based on common definitions, including that they are characters that are mostly one-dimensional and don't have a lot of backstory or depth, these individuals serve functional purposes rather than emotional or developmental ones.
Key Characteristics of Flat Characters
Understanding what defines a flat character helps appreciate their function:
- Limited Dimensions: As the reference notes, they are mostly one-dimensional. This means they typically possess only one or two dominant traits, motivations, or roles. You understand them quickly, and there isn't much hidden beneath the surface.
- Lack of Backstory and Depth: Flat characters don't have a lot of backstory or depth. Their past isn't explored in detail, and their inner thoughts, conflicts, or complex emotions are rarely shown. They exist primarily in the present action of the story.
- Resistance to Change: They remain relatively unchanged from the beginning of the story to the end. Unlike main characters who might learn, grow, or evolve through conflict, flat characters often behave consistently according to their limited traits, regardless of what happens around them.
- Often Secondary or Minor: The reference points out that secondary characters are often the flat characters of the story. They populate the world, advance the plot in minor ways, or highlight aspects of other characters, but the story isn't about them.
Why Use Flat Characters?
While they might sound less engaging than complex characters, flat characters are crucial for several reasons:
- Focus: They help keep the spotlight on the main characters and the central plot. Their simplicity prevents them from distracting the audience.
- Function: They serve specific narrative functions, such as delivering a message, providing comic relief, representing a certain social type, or acting as a foil to a more complex character.
- Realism: Not every person we encounter in real life is deeply complex. Including flat characters can add a sense of realism to the story's world.
- Efficiency: Writers don't need to spend a lot of time developing their personalities or backstories, allowing for quicker pacing and focus on essential elements.
Flat vs. Round Characters
It's helpful to contrast flat characters with their opposite: round characters.
| Feature | Flat Character | Round Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | One or two traits; predictable | Complex; many traits, sometimes contradictory |
| Depth/Detail | Little backstory or inner life | Explored history, thoughts, and emotions |
| Change | Remain relatively unchanged | Undergo significant development or transformation |
| Role | Often secondary characters; functional | Usually protagonists or significant supporting roles |
Think of a shopkeeper who always gives the hero cryptic advice (flat) versus the hero themselves, who struggles with internal doubts and external challenges, eventually changing their outlook (round).
Examples
Examples of common flat character archetypes include:
- The wise old mentor who only appears to give advice.
- The comic relief sidekick who provides jokes but doesn't change.
- The purely evil villain with no understandable motive beyond wickedness.
- The loyal servant who is always there to assist the protagonist.
These characters serve their purpose effectively without needing extensive development.
Understanding flat characters is key to analyzing narrative structure and appreciating how different character types contribute to the overall story experience.
