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Creative Writing

The Craft of Character

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 1,949 ratings
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Amy Bloom

At the center of a good story are the characters in it. In this course aspiring writers will discover how to build and bring to life complex, vivid and unforgettable characters. We will study the choices a writer makes to bring all characters to life on the page, and we will perform written exercises in order to develop a variety of writing and pre-writing techniques, in order to create a variety of characters. We will learn how to use our own life experiences, and the people we know (and how not to!). We will develop inner (thoughts and feelings) and outer (appearance, habits, behavior) lives for our characters and see how that can lead us to richer and more interesting stories. We will breathe life into our characters and let them surprise us.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Discovering Characters from Your Life and Elsewhere
What happens in the writer's mind before any words are written on the paper? Characters then reveal themselves through conflict and drama. Without conflict there is no purpose to the story. We then discuss desire. Human beings want things, even when we don't really know what it is we wish for. Finally, we conclude the module like Michelangelo, chipping away everything that is not the masterpiece statue of David. Learn to find what is germane to the story you are telling by looking closely at the character.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the fundamentals of character development, which is a core skill for writers
Teaches how to use life experiences to create characters, which is a highly relevant approach
Taught by Amy Bloom, a recognized author of fiction
Examines the use of dialogue and monologue for character development, which is an important skill for writers
Requires students to have some experience with writing, which may be a barrier for some

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Reviews summary

Crafting compelling fictional characters

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in character development, particularly praised for its focus on creating complex, vivid, and unforgettable characters. Students found the instructor's passion and clarity to be highly engaging, making the learning experience inspiring. The practical exercises and insightful prompts are frequently highlighted as a strength, helping apply theoretical concepts. While excellent for aspiring writers and those seeking foundational skills, some experienced writers noted that the content could feel too basic or a review of standard principles, suggesting it's best for specific experience levels. Overall, it's a highly recommended resource for deepening character understanding.
Excellent for beginners; potentially basic for experienced writers.
"Good for absolute beginners, I suppose, but I was hoping for more advanced techniques or unique insights..."
"Waste of time for anyone who's already read a book or two on creative writing. It's all very basic, nothing new."
"As an aspiring fantasy writer, character depth is crucial, and this course delivered!"
Earlier technical issues seem to have been resolved over time.
"Some of the early reviews mentioned video issues, but they seemed resolved when I took it."
"I also found some of the video quality a bit rough, and the exercises felt a bit generic. (Older review)"
"The content is high quality, especially the focus on internalizing characters. The pace was good for me."
Strong emphasis on developing rich inner and outer character lives.
"This course truly helped me unlock the secrets of creating compelling characters. I particularly appreciated the module on 'Discovering Characters from Your Life'..."
"It really drilled down into *why* characters act the way they do and how to reveal their inner lives through conflict."
"The concepts of inner and outer character lives were very well explained. It really helps you think about the choices characters make and why."
Course offers actionable techniques and practical exercises.
"I found the practical exercises on dialogue especially useful, as they helped me make my characters sound more authentic."
"It broke down character creation into manageable, actionable steps. The homework assignments were practical..."
"The exercises were perfectly challenging, not too easy, not too hard."
Instructor's passion and clarity significantly enhance learning.
"The instructor's passion for writing is infectious, and the prompts were incredibly insightful..."
"The lectures were clear and engaging, and I felt a significant improvement in my writing after completing it."
"The instructor's examples were always spot-on and helped clarify complex ideas."
Desire for more direct feedback and interactive elements.
"My only minor critique is that I wished there were more opportunities for peer feedback on longer pieces..."
"I also wished for more direct feedback from the course staff rather than just peer review."
"I think the only thing I'd change is adding more interactive elements, like direct instructor feedback or more robust peer review guidelines."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Creative Writing: The Craft of Character with these activities:
Study literary analysis techniques
Sharpen literary analysis skills by following guided tutorials and applying them to course readings
Browse courses on Literary Analysis
Show steps
  • Identify key literary devices and techniques
  • Practice analyzing texts using these techniques
  • Join a study group or online forum for discussion
Read 'Bird by Bird' by Anne Lamott
Dive into practical advice and encouraging words from a seasoned writer
View Somehow on Amazon
Show steps
  • Set aside a dedicated reading time
  • Read at a comfortable pace, taking notes
  • Reflect on the principles and apply them to writing practice
Read 'On Writing' by Stephen King
Read a masterclass on the craft of writing from one of the most successful writers of all time
Show steps
  • Set aside 8-hour block of reading time over 2 days
  • Allocate 20 minutes or less per session
  • Read actively and take notes
  • Summarize the key takeaways
  • Reflect on how these principles apply to own writing
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a character sketch
Develop a detailed and nuanced character sketch to deepen your understanding of character development
Browse courses on Character Development
Show steps
  • Brainstorm a list of character traits and motivations
  • Describe the character's physical appearance, backstory, and personality
  • Consider how the character would react in different situations
  • Write a one-page character sketch
Dialogue writing exercises
Improve dialogue writing skills through targeted exercises and practice
Browse courses on Dialogue Writing
Show steps
  • Practice writing dialogue in different scenarios
  • Focus on creating realistic and engaging conversations
  • Use dialogue to reveal character and advance the plot
Participate in online writing workshops
Engage with other aspiring writers and provide and receive feedback on writing
Show steps
  • Attend writing workshops online
  • Submit work for peer review
  • Provide constructive feedback to others
Write a short story
Synthesize course learnings by writing a short story that demonstrates a strong grasp of character development, plot, and theme
Show steps
  • Brainstorm a compelling story idea
  • Develop a detailed outline
  • Write a first draft
  • Revise and edit the story
  • Share the story with others for feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Creative Writing: The Craft of Character will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Author
Authors use their understanding of characters, dialogue, and storytelling techniques to create compelling narratives that resonate with readers. This course would help an aspiring Author gain the skills needed to craft believable and memorable characters, which is essential for success in the field of writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Author
Journalist
Journalists need to be able to quickly and accurately assess people and situations in order to write compelling stories. This course will help Journalists develop the skills needed to create vivid and engaging characters, which is essential for success in the field of journalism.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Screenwriter
Screenwriters need to be able to create characters that are both believable and engaging. This course will help Screenwriters develop the skills needed to craft complex and compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of screenwriting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Screenwriter
Novelist
Novelists need to be able to create characters that are both believable and engaging. This course will help Novelists develop the skills needed to craft complex and compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of fiction writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Novelist
Fiction Writer
Fiction Writers need to be able to create characters that are both believable and engaging. This course will help Fiction Writers develop the skills needed to craft complex and compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of fiction writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Fiction Writer
Speechwriter
Speechwriters need to be able to understand and convey the thoughts and feelings of others in a clear and engaging way. This course will help Speechwriters develop the skills needed to create compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of speechwriting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speechwriter
Poet
Poets need to be able to create vivid and engaging imagery in order to convey their thoughts and feelings. This course will help Poets develop the skills needed to craft compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of poetry.
See salaries and explore the career path for Poet
Playwright
Playwrights need to be able to create characters that are both believable and engaging. This course will help Playwrights develop the skills needed to craft complex and compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of playwriting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Playwright
Creative Director
Creative Directors need to be able to understand and convey the thoughts and feelings of others in a clear and engaging way. This course will help Creative Directors develop the skills needed to create compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of creative direction.
See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Director
Editor
Editors need to be able to assess the work of others and provide constructive feedback. This course will help Editors develop the skills needed to evaluate characters and provide feedback that will help authors improve their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Literary Agent
Literary Agents need to be able to understand and evaluate the work of others. This course will help Literary Agents develop the skills needed to assess characters and identify works that have the potential to be successful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Literary Agent
Professor
Professors need to be able to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging way. This course will help Professors develop the skills needed to create compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of teaching.
See salaries and explore the career path for Professor
Teacher
Teachers need to be able to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging way. This course will help Teachers develop the skills needed to create compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of teaching.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher
Writing Coach
Writing Coaches need to be able to help others develop their writing skills. This course will help Writing Coaches develop the skills needed to evaluate characters and provide feedback that will help writers improve their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writing Coach
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writers need to be able to create compelling content for a variety of clients. This course will help Freelance Writers develop the skills needed to create compelling characters, which is essential for success in the field of freelance writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Freelance Writer

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Creative Writing: The Craft of Character.
Cover image
Creative Mythology (the Masks of God, Volume 4)
Save
This classic work explores the universal patterns and archetypes of mythology. It can help writers create characters that resonate with readers on a deep level.
Creative Mythology (The Masks of God, Volume 4)...
Hardcover
$$
The Masks of God, Vol. 4: Creative Mythology
Paperback
$$
Masks of God Vol. 4 : Creative Mythology
Unknown Binding
$$$
Cover image
The Mither Mages Trilogy
Save
Explores the different ways to create and develop characters. It offers insights into the use of viewpoint, perspective, and dialogue.
The Mither Mages Trilogy: (The Lost Gate, The Gate...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Just Write
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of character creation, development, and motivation. It offers practical advice and exercises to help writers create believable and engaging characters.
Just Write: Creating Unforgettable Fiction and a...
Paperback
$$
Just Write: Creating Unforgettable Fiction and a...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Writer's Journey - 25th Anniversary Edition
Save
Provides a framework for understanding the structure of stories and characters. It can help writers create more compelling and satisfying stories.
The Writer's Journey - 25th Anniversary Edition:...
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Writer's Journey - 25th Anniversary Edition:...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Action
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of the art of dialogue writing. It covers topics such as characterization, subtext, and rhythm.
Action: The Art of Excitement for Screen, Page, and...
Hardcover
$$
Action: The Art of Excitement for Screen, Page, and...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
On Writing
Save
This memoir by Stephen King offers insights into the writing process and the craft of creating characters.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft (A Memoir of the...
Paperback
$$
Secret Windows: Essays and Fiction on the Craft of...
Hardcover
$$$
Where Nightmares Come From: The Art of Storytelling...
Kindle Edition
$
On Writing by King, Stephen (2012) Paperback
Paperback
$$
(Español) Mientras escribo: Memorias de un oficio / On...
Paperback
$$
Stephen King Collection 3 Books Set (The Stand,...
Paperback
$$$
(Italiano) On Writing: Autobiografia di un mestiere (Italian...
Kindle Edition
$
(Deutsch) Das Leben und das Schreiben: Memoiren (German...
Kindle Edition
$$
On Writing: A Memoir Of The Craft
Audio CD
$$
Stephen King Collection 4 Books Set (The Outsider,...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
The Anatomy of Genres
Save
Provides a step-by-step guide to the storytelling process. It can help writers create more compelling and engaging stories.
Anatomy of Genres
Paperback
$$
The Anatomy of Genres: How Story Forms Explain the...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
A Writer's Guide to Characterization
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of characterization. It covers topics such as creating believable characters, developing their motivations, and using them to create compelling stories.
A Writer's Guide to Characterization: Archetypes,...
Paperback
$$
A Writer's Guide to Characterization: Archetypes,...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Setting
Save
Guide to writing fiction. It offers advice on character creation, plot development, and style.
Setting (Elements of Fiction Writing)
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Somehow
Save
Offers practical advice and encouragement for writers. It covers topics such as overcoming writer's block, finding your voice, and creating characters.
Somehow: Thoughts on Love
Hardcover
$$
Somehow: Thoughts on Love
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Save the Cat! Writes a Young Adult Novel
Save
Offers a step-by-step guide to writing a novel. It covers topics such as plot development, characterization, and structure.
Save the Cat! Writes a Young Adult Novel: The...
Paperback
$$
Save the Cat! Writes a Young Adult Novel: The...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Teaching Mathematics Using Interactive Mapping
Save
This classic guide to writing offers advice on style, grammar, and usage. It can help writers improve their writing skills and create more polished and effective prose.
Teaching Mathematics Using Interactive Mapping
Paperback
$$$
Teaching Mathematics Using Interactive Mapping
Kindle Edition
$$$

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Rating
4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
6 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Wesleyan University
Instructor
Amy Bloom
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی српски
This course belongs to a collection called Creative Writing. It's comprised of five courses:
  1. Creative Writing: The Craft of Character (viewing)
  2. Creative Writing: The Craft of Setting and Description
  3. Capstone: Your Story
  4. Creative Writing: The Craft of Plot
  5. Creative Writing: The Craft of Style
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the fundamentals of character development, which is a core skill for writers
Teaches how to use life experiences to create characters, which is a highly relevant approach
Taught by Amy Bloom, a recognized author of fiction
Examines the use of dialogue and monologue for character development, which is an important skill for writers
Requires students to have some experience with writing, which may be a barrier for some
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