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:
This character is new (in town, at work, school, etc.) and has to learn the rules for fitting in. The newcomer is frequently used as a narrative device to introduce the reader to the world and explain its various aspects in an organic manner.

FICTIONAL EXAMPLES:
Bella Swan (Twilight), Claire Fraser (Outlander), Dorothy Gale (The Wonderful Wizard of Oz), Robert Langdon (The Da Vinci Code), Thomas (The Maze Runner trilogy)

COMMON STRENGTHS:
ALERT, CAUTIOUS, COURTEOUS, CURIOUS, DIPLOMATIC, INDEPENDENT, INNOCENT, INTROVERTED, OBJECTIVE, OBSERVANT, PATIENT, PENSIVE, PRIVATE, RESOURCEFUL, RESPONSIBLE, SENSIBLE

COMMON WEAKNESSES:
APATHETIC, CHILDISH, EVASIVE, GULLIBLE, IGNORANT, INSECURE, NEEDY, NERVOUS, SUSPICIOUS, TIMID, WITHDRAWN, WORRYWART

ASSOCIATED ACTIONS, BEHAVIORS, AND TENDENCIES:
Having a fresh perspective
Being curious about their surroundings
Not knowing or understanding the rules of the new environment
Standing back and observing rather than jumping right into things
Adaptability; learning quickly
Noticing everything; being highly observant
Keeping to themselves until they get the lay of the land
Seeking guidance from others on aspects of the new world
Forming alliances with people who can help them
Forming friendships with other newcomers
Bridging the gap between disparate people groups in the new environment
Showing empathy for others
Challenging traditions in the new environment
Being resilient
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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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