Definition

Noun: An imaginary person or being created and represented within a work of fiction, such as a novel, play, film, or story. A fictional character is a constructed entity that drives the narrative or participates in the fictional world.

Usage

The term "fictional character" is used to discuss the personages invented by an author or creator. It distinguishes these invented entities from real people or historical figures. It is commonly used in literary analysis, film criticism, and general discussion of stories. * When analyzing a novel, one might discuss the motivations of its fictional characters. * The actor prepared for the role by writing a detailed backstory for the fictional character.

Examples

• Sherlock Holmes is a famous fictional character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
• The author has a talent for creating believable and complex fictional characters.
• In the discussion, they debated whether the fictional character was a hero or an anti-hero.

Advanced Usage

• Character Archetype: A universally recognizable fictional character that embodies a fundamental human motif or pattern (e.g., the Hero, the Mentor, the Trickster).
• Character Development/Arc: The process by which a fictional character changes or grows throughout the course of a narrative.

Variants and Related Words

• Character (n.): A more general term that can mean a person in a story (fictional) or a person's moral qualities. The context usually clarifies the meaning.
  • She is the main character in the novel. (Here, "character" is understood to mean "fictional character.")
• Protagonist (n.): The main or central fictional character in a story.
• Antagonist (n.): The fictional character who opposes the protagonist.

Synonyms

• Persona
• Dramatis persona (used especially for characters in a play)

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Break the fourth wall: When a fictional character acknowledges the audience or the fact that they are in a fictional work.
• In character/Out of character: Used to describe whether a fictional character's actions or dialogue are consistent with their established personality.

Noun

1. an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)
   • she is the main character in the novel