The test of a round character is whether it is capable of…
“The test of a round character is whether it is capable of surprising in a convincing way. If it never surprises it is flat. Flat characters ... in their purest form ... are constructed round a single idea or quality; when there is more than one factor to them, we get the beginning of the curve toward the round. The really flat character can be experessed in one sentence such as, "I will never desert Mr Micawber." There is Mrs Micawber - she says she won't desert Mr Micawber; she doesn't, and there she is.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A well‑developed character shows depth and can surprise convincingly; flat characters are one‑dimensional, defined by a single trait.
In simple terms: Round characters are complex; flat ones are simple.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate depth and complexity in character creation.
Themes
literature
character development
storytelling
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- character analysis
Key Concepts
psychology
complexity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you add layers to a seemingly simple character?
- What makes a surprise feel authentic?
A Different Perspective
Complexity may be hard to sustain across long narratives.