CHARACTER TYPE AND TROPE THESAURUS

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HELPFUL TIP:

Using a trope or archetype helps readers quickly understand a character, but stopping there creates a weak and predictable figure. Instead, add depth with a unique backstory, emotional wounds, and related fears and flaws. You can also break expectations with an unusual job, relationship, secret, or positive trait.
DESCRIPTION:
The best friend knows the main character better than anyone, has their best interests at heart, and often acts as their sounding board. This character is a staple in most stories, so it's especially important to differentiate them through characterization and the nature of their relationship with the protagonist.

FICTIONAL EXAMPLES:
Samwise Gamgee (Lord of the Rings), Ron Weasley (the Harry Potter series), Diana Barry (Anne of Green Gables), Samwell Tarly (A Song of Ice and Fire), Samantha Jones (Sex and the City)

COMMON STRENGTHS:
DISCREET, EMPATHETIC, GENEROUS, HONORABLE, INTELLIGENT, LOYAL, NURTURING, PATIENT, PERCEPTIVE, PROTECTIVE, SENSIBLE, SENTIMENTAL, SUPPORTIVE, TRUSTING, UNSELFISH, WISE

COMMON WEAKNESSES:
CATTY, CHILDISH, GOSSIPY, JEALOUS, IMPULSIVE, MANIPULATIVE, NEEDY, NOSY, OBSESSIVE, OVERSENSITIVE, POSSESSIVE, ROWDY, SUBSERVIENT, WORRYWART

ASSOCIATED ACTIONS, BEHAVIORS, AND TENDENCIES:
Being intensely loyal
Being a good listener
Sticking up for the protagonist when necessary
Being attuned to their protagonist's emotions
Knowing exactly what's needed and when it's needed
Wanting what's best for the other person
Calling or texting the protagonist regularly
Having a history with the protagonist
Sharing a hobby or activity with the protagonist
Being strong in areas where the protagonist is weak (and vice versa)
Not judging the protagonist, no matter what they've done
Alternatively, being able to speak harsh truths the protagonist wouldn't accept from anyone else
Being supportive
Being available—willing to drop anything when the protagonist needs help
Being forgiving
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FEARS THAT MIGHT LIMIT THE CHARACTER:
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SITUATIONS THAT WILL CHALLENGE THEM:
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INNER STRUGGLES TO GIVE THEM DEPTH:
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CLICHÉS TO BE AWARE OF:
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TWIST THIS TROPE WITH A CHARACTER WHO...:
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CREATE SOMETHING NEW:
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