Part 2: The Art of Dramatic Writing - Summary Notes

Characters are built from traits, and traits generate conflict.

Examples:

• Ambition → control, jealousy, power struggle

• Fear → avoidance, denial

• Pride → resistance, downfall

Certain traits naturally create stronger drama:

• Ruthlessness

• Obsession

• Desperation

• Jealousy

• Vindictiveness

What Makes a Powerful Character:

• Something vital at stake

• Cannot turn back

• Strong will

• Fixated on a goal

• Will push until they win or are destroyed

The story belongs to the pivotal character.

Requirements:

• Must want something intensely

• Must force conflict

• Must be active, not passive

• Must push forward until

• They succeed OR

• They are destroyed

A passive or compromising character cannot carry a story.

Conflict requires equal opposition.

Antagonist:

• Must be as strong as the protagonist

• Must have their own logic and drive

Orchestration:

• Characters must be fundamentally different

• Opposites must clash without compromise

If characters can easily agree → there is no story

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