Unleash Your Imagination: Conquer the 2026 Creative Writing Practice Exam!

A round character is defined by their complexity and the depth of their personality. These characters often have intricate backgrounds, motivations, and traits that make them feel more real and relatable to readers. They typically undergo some form of development or change throughout the narrative, which allows them to evolve in response to their experiences, struggles, or relationships.

In contrast, flat characters are generally simpler and lack the depth that makes round characters compelling. They often serve specific roles within the story without the nuance or development that characterizes round characters. Flat characters may be used to emphasize certain traits or themes but do not typically experience significant growth or transformation.

This distinction is essential for understanding character development in literature. While a round character adds richness and complexity to a narrative, flat characters can serve important, albeit less dynamic, purposes within the storyline. Thus, recognizing these differences helps readers appreciate various storytelling techniques and character roles.