Character positions can set the stage for different types of plot arcs. A character starting from a low position and gradually rising can have a rags - to - riches type of arc. On the other hand, a character who loses their high position can have a fall - from - grace arc. These changes in position often form the backbone of the plot in many novels.
The protagonist drives the plot forward. For instance, if the protagonist is on a quest, the plot follows their journey. Antagonists create obstacles for the protagonist, which adds tension and conflict. In a detective novel, the antagonist might be the criminal that the detective (protagonist) is trying to catch. Supporting characters can also influence the plot. They might provide crucial information or assistance to the protagonist.
Good character traits can drive the plot forward. For instance, if a character is determined, like Harry Potter in the series of the same name, his determination to defeat Voldemort moves the plot along through all the books. It leads to his constant search for knowledge and power to fight against the dark forces.
Character tropes can drive the plot in mystery fiction. For instance, the nosy neighbor trope can start the mystery. Their prying nature might lead them to discover something unusual, which kicks off the investigation. If there's a master criminal trope, their actions and motives form the core of the plot as the detective tries to outwit them.
Character flaws can drive the plot. For example, if a character is overly ambitious (a character flaw), they might make decisions that lead to their downfall. This creates conflict and moves the story forward. If a character is too trusting, they could be easily deceived, which can start a whole chain of events in the plot.
Character origin stories often set the foundation for a character's motives. For example, if a character in a novel had a difficult childhood, like being orphaned at a young age, they might be driven by a need for family or security in their adult life. This origin can shape their actions and decisions throughout the story.
If the character is young, like a teenager, the plot might revolve around their growth and development. For example, in a young adult novel, a 15 - year - old character's plot could be about dealing with school bullies, first crushes, and finding their place in the world. Their age - related inexperience can lead to mistakes that drive the plot forward.
In many novels, a changing character can drive the plot forward. For example, if a character starts as weak and becomes strong, like Eowyn in 'The Lord of the Rings'. Her growth from a damsel in distress - like figure to a warrior who can slay the Witch - king changes the course of the battle and the overall plot. It gives hope to the other characters and shows that anyone can overcome their limitations, which is a major theme in the story.
Well, take 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime'. Rimuru's overpowered nature means he can easily overcome most physical threats. This allows the plot to focus more on political intrigue, building his own kingdom, and diplomatic relations. His power also attracts other powerful beings, either as allies or enemies, which then spins off into various plot threads. So, an overpowered character can shift the focus of the plot from basic survival or power - gaining to more complex aspects like leadership and international relations within the story world.
One unique aspect is that character positions can show power dynamics. For example, in a story about a king and his subjects, the king is often in a position of high authority, which is reflected in his actions and how others interact with him. Characters in the center of the plot usually drive the story forward, while those on the periphery might provide context or contrast.
They can greatly affect the plot. If the time form is slow - paced, like in a novel about a person's long - term isolation in the wilderness, the plot unfolds gradually. The chronotope of the wilderness shapes the character's experiences and decisions. For example, the changing of seasons (a time aspect) in that isolated place (space) affects when the character hunts, builds shelter, etc., which drives the plot.