Character classifications play a huge role in the plot. Heroes and heroines usually have a goal, and the plot is built around their attempts to reach that goal. Villains try to stop them, creating a struggle. Comedic characters can lighten the mood during tense parts of the plot. Tragic characters often bring a sense of pathos. Their downfall can be a significant part of the plot's development, making the readers feel a range of emotions from pity to horror.
Dynamic characters can cause major shifts in the plot as they change. Their new beliefs or behaviors can lead to different outcomes. Static characters, on the other hand, help to maintain a certain stability in the story. Round characters with their complex personalities can introduce multiple layers of sub - plots. For example, a character with a secret past can bring in a whole new aspect of the plot. Flat characters can be used to quickly convey a simple idea or add a bit of color to the story without complicating the plot too much.
The protagonist drives the plot forward. For instance, if the protagonist is on a quest, the plot follows their journey. Antagonists create obstacles for the protagonist, which adds tension and conflict. In a detective novel, the antagonist might be the criminal that the detective (protagonist) is trying to catch. Supporting characters can also influence the plot. They might provide crucial information or assistance to the protagonist.
There are several common character classifications in novels. One is the protagonist, who is the central figure around which the story revolves. Then there are antagonists, those who oppose the protagonist and create conflict. Another type is the sidekick or supporting character, who helps or accompanies the protagonist. For example, in 'Harry Potter', Harry is the protagonist, Voldemort is the antagonist, and Ron and Hermione are sidekicks.
Good character traits can drive the plot forward. For instance, if a character is determined, like Harry Potter in the series of the same name, his determination to defeat Voldemort moves the plot along through all the books. It leads to his constant search for knowledge and power to fight against the dark forces.
Character tropes can drive the plot in mystery fiction. For instance, the nosy neighbor trope can start the mystery. Their prying nature might lead them to discover something unusual, which kicks off the investigation. If there's a master criminal trope, their actions and motives form the core of the plot as the detective tries to outwit them.
Character flaws can drive the plot. For example, if a character is overly ambitious (a character flaw), they might make decisions that lead to their downfall. This creates conflict and moves the story forward. If a character is too trusting, they could be easily deceived, which can start a whole chain of events in the plot.
Machiavellian characters often drive the plot by creating conflict. For instance, in 'Macbeth', the witches can be seen as Machiavellian in a sense. Their prophecies fuel Macbeth's ambition and lead to a series of murders and chaos. Their actions set the whole tragic plot in motion.
Obsequious characters can also serve as a contrast. In 'Pride and Prejudice', Mr. Collins' obsequious behavior towards Lady Catherine de Bourgh highlights the independent spirit of Elizabeth Bennet. His actions and reactions in relation to the noblewoman influence the social interactions and plot developments in the story.
Drugs in fantasy novels can be a major plot device. For example, if a character is poisoned (a form of 'drug' in a sense), it can set off a search for an antidote, driving the plot forward. If a hero drinks a magic potion that gives him superhuman strength, it can change the course of a battle and thus the overall plot.
They can also cause plot twists. Consider a narcissistic character who is so confident in their own abilities that they make a huge miscalculation. This miscalculation can then change the direction of the story. In a mystery novel, a narcissistic detective might overlook important clues because he believes he is too smart to miss anything, which then leads to new developments in the mystery.
The levels of cultivation often drive the plot forward. As characters strive to ascend in their cultivation levels, they encounter various challenges and opportunities. For example, a character might need to find a rare treasure to break through a bottleneck in their cultivation. This search for resources can lead to adventures, battles, and alliances.
Necromancers' evolutionary traits can drive the plot by creating conflict. For instance, if a necromancer develops the power to raise an army of super - strong undead, it will pose a great threat to other characters or kingdoms in the story, leading to battles and power struggles.