The victim is often portrayed as vulnerable. They might be in the wrong place at the wrong time or have a weakness that is exploited by the criminal.
The victim in crime fiction can be created by first deciding their role in the overall plot. If it's a mystery about a serial killer, the victims might share certain characteristics like appearance or occupation. Their creation also involves their relationships. Maybe the victim had a feud with someone or was in a love triangle. This makes their death more believable and engaging for the readers.
In crime fiction, guilt can be portrayed in various ways. Often, the guilty character may show signs of nervousness, like fidgeting or avoiding eye contact. For example, in many classic detective novels, the murderer might be sweating or stuttering when questioned. Their guilt also manifests in their attempts to cover up their actions, such as creating false alibis or trying to mislead the investigator.
Women in crime fiction can be femme fatales. They use their charm and wits to manipulate situations and people, often for their own gain. These characters add an element of mystery and allure to the story. On the other hand, there are also motherly figures who might be trying to protect their families from the threats of crime. They can be a source of stability and moral compass in the chaotic world of crime depicted in the stories.
Nepotism in crime fiction often serves as a source of conflict. It can create an unfair advantage for certain characters. Consider a crime family where the boss gives preferential treatment to his son in matters of illegal business operations, which then leads to internal power struggles as other members feel slighted.
In detective novels, the victim can be portrayed in various ways. Sometimes they are presented as innocent and blameless, which immediately evokes sympathy from the readers. Their backstories might be gradually revealed to show that they were ordinary people caught in unfortunate circumstances.
Male characters are usually portrayed as the main action - takers in crime fiction. They are often the ones chasing the criminals or being the criminals themselves. For instance, in many classic detective stories, the male detective is the hero.
Nazis in Scandinavian crime fiction can be presented in different ways. Sometimes they are the main antagonists, driving the plot forward with their hidden motives and dark pasts. Other times, they are part of a complex web of historical events that the characters have to untangle. For instance, a detective might stumble upon a Nazi - era conspiracy while investigating a modern - day crime, and as he digs deeper, he discovers how the past is still very much alive in the present. This not only makes for an exciting plot but also gives the story a deeper meaning about the long - term consequences of historical atrocities.
Male characters in crime fiction frequently play the role of the hero. They might be the police detective, the private eye, or the vigilante. They are typically in positions of power and authority within the narrative. Their gender role is associated with being decisive. They are the ones who make the quick judgments, chase the criminals, and ultimately bring justice. Their actions drive the plot forward, and they are often the center of the story.
In crime fiction, female victims are often portrayed as vulnerable. They are frequently depicted as being in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, in many classic detective stories, a female victim might be found alone in a dark alley or an isolated place, which makes her an easy target for the criminal. This portrayal sometimes reinforces gender stereotypes of women as being less able to defend themselves.
One common method is to make the victim a morally ambiguous character. This way, readers may not fully sympathize with them, adding complexity. For example, a victim who has cheated others in business.