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@ajaj2000 excellent! I think backstory is probably the biggest determiner of character traits, especially tragic events that affected the character. And great example with the character paradox, too 🙂

@sarah-narnathron those are really good thoughts. I’ve never heard the advice about flipping the good traits inside out to create flaws, but it makes sense the more I think about it. Your examples showed that really well.

@devastate-lasting *nods* The diagram idea sounds good too. It makes for great story conflict (and internal conflict) when a character literally has to fight themselves throughout the story.

@allison-grace yes, backstory! In a way, every character trait comes from backstory, even if that backstory begins with their biological parents. Early life and tragedies are probably the biggest determiners as well.

@karthmin great point! To add onto it, I’ve seen a lot of books these days where characters don’t actually hate their flaws; they just try to uproot the ‘lie’ in their lives and get on with their character arc, or else focus solely on using their strengths to the greatest potential. But it adds a deeper element when characters wrestle with a certain trait they possess and must learn to fight it or, with help, get rid of it to the best of their abilities.