Choosing Meaningful Character Strengths and Flaws

Every one of us has strengths that push us forward and flaws that hold us back. The same is true for fictional characters and it’s this shared human truth that allows audiences to connect with them. When these types of character traits mirror our own struggles or aspirations, they feel more real, and their journey matters to us.
Modern psychology has given audiences a deeper understanding of human behavior, and with it, higher expectations. Flat heroes and one-note villains no longer resonate with audiences like they once did because they ignore the messy, layered reality of human nature. To connect with today’s readers and viewers, characters must be authentic, complex, and relatable.
In this workshop, we’ll examine what makes a strength or flaw meaningful, why they matter to the audience, and how to use them to create dramatic tension. We’ll also explore how principles from virtue ethics and psychology can help us invent compelling, believable traits that truly connect with modern audiences.