The Complexity of Characters in Literature

Introduction

• Speaker: Tim Freitas
• Focus: Exploring character complexity in literature, especially in AP Literature.

Key Concepts

• Importance of addressing complexities in stories.
• Complexities can arise from:
  • Settings
  • Symbols
  • Point of view
  • Other literary elements

Types of Character Complexities

1. Layered Characters

   • Static characters can still be complex.
   • Example: Benvolio from Romeo and Juliet.
     • Character Traits:
       • Helpful (breaks up fights).
       • Honest (recounts fight details).
       • Good friend (supports Romeo).
     • Analysis: Despite being static, Benvolio shows complexity through different layers of his goodness.

2. Contradictory Characters

   • Characters who act hypocritically.
   • Example: Holden Caulfield from The Catcher in the Rye.
     • Contradictions:
       • Blames others for problems, while being a phony himself.
       • Critiques others for growing up yet fears his own transition to adulthood.
     • Analysis: Reflects how people hold contradictory ideals in real life.
     • Another Example: The narrator from The Tell-Tale Heart.
       • Displays mad tendencies but feels guilt after murder.

3. Paradoxical Characters

   • Characters that embody contradictory traits but are not actually contradictory.
   • Example: Victor Freeze from Batman's Heart of Ice.
     • Complexity:
       • Villainous acts driven by love for his wife.
       • Actions appear wrong, but are motivated by a noble cause.
   • Analysis: A paradox is a statement that contradicts itself but holds truth, similar to the complexity of these characters.
   • Another Example: The Joker.
     • Blends brilliance with madness.

Paradoxical Elements in Literature

• Common in characters from major monotheistic religions.
  • Example: God is entirely loving and merciful, yet also demands justice.
• Highlights the complexity in studying such characters.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore character complexities in static characters.
• Call to action for engagement:
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  • Share thoughts on paradoxical characters in literature in the comments.