Definition
The progression and transformation of a character throughout a story, showing how their personality, beliefs, or circumstances change from beginning to end. A strong character arc demonstrates growth, conflict, and resolution.
Example Usage
The protagonist's character arc from selfish to selfless made the film compelling.
Origin
From literary criticism and narrative theory, dating back to classical storytelling analysis but formalized in modern screenwriting in the mid-20th century.
Fun Fact
The concept is so fundamental to storytelling that screenwriting teachers often say 'the character arc is the story.'
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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