What is the Difference Between Flat and Round Character?

The difference between flat and round characters lies in their complexity, depth, and development throughout a story. Here are the main distinctions between the two:

Flat Characters:

• Two-dimensional and relatively uncomplicated.
• Lack nuance and are often stereotypes.
• Their purpose in a story is usually perfunctory.
• Often used as secondary or supporting characters.
• Examples include Mrs. Micawber in Charles Dickens's David Copperfield.

Round Characters:

• Complex, multifaceted, and lifelike.
• Develop throughout the story, revealing their personality, inner and outer conflicts, and motivations.
• Undergo emotional development by the story's end.
• Usually play an important role in the story and are often protagonists or antagonists.
• Examples include Becky Sharp in William Thackeray's Vanity Fair and Royal Tenenbaum in The Royal Tenenbaums.

In summary, round characters are more developed, relatable, and intriguing, while flat characters are simpler and often serve as supporting characters in a story. Both types of characters serve important purposes in literature, film, and other narrative forms.

Comparative Table: Flat vs Round Character

The main difference between flat and round characters lies in their depth, complexity, and development throughout the story. Here is a table outlining the differences between flat and round characters:

Round characters are more realistic and relatable, as they possess complex personalities and undergo development throughout the course of the story. On the other hand, flat characters are simpler and more straightforward, often serving as tools to move the story along or to showcase the changes in the round characters.