Hey, everyone! Let's dive into a juicy topic: characters who seem to exist solely to push the plot forward. You know the type – they pop up, do something conveniently crucial, and then vanish, leaving you wondering, "Wait, what was their deal?" It's a common trope in storytelling, and sometimes it works, while other times, it feels like a writer's shortcut. We're talking about characters that function primarily as plot devices. It's like they're cogs in a machine, their purpose limited to advancing the story, often at the expense of their own depth or development. Let's explore some of these characters and discuss how their roles impact the narrative. I'm talking about characters that serve a purpose and aren't always meant to be understood. Think of it as a cinematic tool used to drive a story. There are many characters like that in various forms of storytelling. Some people may even find a way to criticize the characters since their main purpose is to move the plot.
Characters that are plot devices aren't always bad characters; instead, they serve the purpose of making the plot move forward, and that is their main priority. The characters help the protagonist reach a higher point in the story, and in most cases, they also act as a stepping stone for the protagonist. Some of these characters have depth, and some are plain. There are many examples in many forms of storytelling, such as movies, novels, and even anime. In many cases, the character serves as a catalyst for change or a source of conflict. This type of character can also act as a mentor or a guide for the main character. Think about it; they're like narrative Swiss Army knives!
We are going to explore some of the characters that have this type of role in their respective stories and discuss how this impacts the storytelling. Some of the characters are well-developed, and some of them aren't. But the main idea here is to find the characters that mainly serve a plot function. I can give you examples, but I want you to think about it yourself; it is more fun that way. But I'm still going to give you some examples, just in case you are stuck.
The Designated Damsel or the Supportive Sidekick
One of the most classic examples, guys! The damsel in distress! Think about it; this character often appears solely to be rescued, kidnapped, or otherwise imperiled, kicking off the hero's journey. Their sole purpose is to provide a catalyst for action. They might not have much personality, a detailed backstory, or agency of their own. Their entire existence seems tethered to the protagonist's quest. Likewise, the supportive sidekick can fall into this category. Their primary function might be to offer advice, provide information, or, in some cases, die to motivate the hero. They're there to serve a specific need within the plot, often with limited characterization. It feels kind of harsh, right? Their role is pre-determined, and their fate is often sealed based on how the plot needs to unfold. The damsel is always in danger. The sidekick has to die. It's the unwritten rule of storytelling, and it is always like that.
Consider the sidekick characters. Their primary function is to support the protagonist. They are there to offer advice, provide information, or, in some cases, die to motivate the hero. It's a role designed to serve a specific need within the plot, often at the expense of their characterization. It is like their destiny is already written for them. There are no other ways for them to avoid their fate. The role is set for them, and the story needs to follow the path set. Think of the sidekick characters as plot devices since their purpose is to support the main character and push the plot. This means you may not see other types of character development. They are there only for the purpose of pushing the plot. The protagonist needs them to reach the end, and it is as simple as that.
These characters, while often vital to the story, can sometimes feel like narrative pawns, their actions and motivations dictated by the needs of the plot rather than their own inner lives. But hey, they serve their purpose, right? The story is important! It is important to keep in mind that there is no way to avoid plot devices; in many cases, these characters are extremely important to the story's development. It's all part of the storytelling, and sometimes it's needed to move the plot forward and engage with the audience. This is just one example, and there are other types of roles that also count as plot devices.
Examples of Damsel or Sidekicks
- Princess Leia from Star Wars (initially).
- Watson from Sherlock Holmes.
- Samwise Gamgee from Lord of the Rings.
The Convenient Antagonist or the Mysterious Mentor
Then, there's the antagonist who appears out of nowhere with the sole purpose of creating conflict. They might have a flimsy backstory or their motivations might be paper-thin. Their primary function is to challenge the hero, creating obstacles and tension. They serve the plot, not the narrative, in a way. They are there to create conflict, not to be understood. They can serve as a simple obstacle, or they can be developed throughout the story, but the function does not change. In many cases, these antagonists act to move the plot forward and not to be understood. It does not mean they are bad characters, but they are created to fill a narrative need. They have a specific purpose, and that purpose is to be the antagonist.
On the flip side, there's the mysterious mentor, who often appears just in time to provide the hero with vital information or training. Their role is often to set the hero on the right path, and once they've served their purpose, they might disappear. This is what they are meant to be in the story. Their purpose is to help the hero, and that's it. The mentor might be a plot device because their development isn't a priority. Their only function is to help the hero. It can be a simple character or a complex one, but in the end, their purpose is the same. They're there to push the protagonist forward, and when their work is done, they disappear into the background.
These characters are crucial to the story's progression. Still, their primary function is to serve the needs of the plot, sometimes at the expense of a fully realized character arc. They are there for a reason, and that reason is not to be understood. They have a specific role, and they need to fill that role. In most cases, it is as simple as that, but this doesn't mean that the character isn't important. It's just that their development is not their main goal; they are meant to serve the plot.
Examples of Antagonists or Mentors
- Agent Smith from The Matrix.
- Haymitch Abernathy from The Hunger Games.
- Severus Snape from Harry Potter.
The Deus Ex Machina and the Information Dispenser
Ah, the Deus Ex Machina! The ultimate plot device! This is the character, or thing, that magically appears at the last moment to solve the hero's problems. Usually, this comes in the form of a powerful figure. This plot device is used to save the hero at the last moment, and usually, it is a bit far-fetched or unearned. It can be a god-like being, a long-lost relative, or even a convenient piece of technology. Their primary function is to resolve the conflict, not to be understood. The audience can see the writing on the wall when this character appears. It's a quick fix! It solves the problems right away! This plot device is a storytelling crutch, to be honest, but sometimes it's necessary to reach the end. This can sometimes feel unsatisfying as it undermines the hero's efforts and the plot's build-up. But hey, at least the hero is safe!
Then, there's the information dispenser, a character whose sole purpose is to reveal key plot points, backstory, or clues. They're like walking encyclopedias, conveniently knowing everything the hero needs to know at the right time. This character is there to provide information, nothing more! The characters act as a plot device, and there is no way to argue that. They might not have any other role or purpose. Their role is limited to helping the protagonist with their quest. They are there to move the story, not to be understood.
These characters are the ultimate plot devices! They might resolve the conflict or advance the plot, but they often feel unearned or lacking in depth. Their role is to help the story, and that's it. Some people may not like it, but it is needed. Their main function is to serve the plot's needs, even at the expense of character development or narrative consistency. They are there to move the story forward. Their purpose is to keep the audience engaged and interested, even if it means sacrificing some narrative depth. This is not to say that they are always bad characters; in many cases, they are needed to keep the story moving.
Examples of Deus Ex Machina and Information Dispenser
- Gandalf from Lord of the Rings (sometimes).
- The Oracle from The Matrix.
- Various side characters that appear just to reveal information.
Identifying the Plot Devices: What to Look For
So, how do you spot a plot device character? Here are some things to look out for:
- Lack of Backstory: Do they have a detailed history, or do they just appear when needed? If the character lacks depth, it could be a plot device.
- Unexplained Motivations: Does their behavior seem random or driven by the needs of the plot? Is the purpose clear?
- Convenient Abilities: Do they have skills or knowledge that conveniently solve the hero's problems? This is like a cheat code!
- Sudden Appearances/Disappearances: Do they pop in and out of the story without much explanation?
- One-Dimensional Personality: Are they defined by a single trait or purpose? Do they have any other role to play?
The Impact of Plot Devices: Are They Good or Bad?
Okay, so plot devices are a thing. But are they a bad thing? The answer is: It depends! The use of a plot device can be the demise of a character, and we are all used to that. It can also make the story move forward. It has many pros and cons.
Pros:
- Pacing: They can help to keep the story moving at a good pace.
- Conflict: They can create conflict or tension. Think about the damsel in distress. She kicks off the hero's journey!
- Resolution: They can provide a quick resolution to the conflict.
Cons:
- Weak Character Development: It can be a simple character that is lacking depth.
- Unsatisfying Solutions: The solution can come out of nowhere. It makes the audience feel like there is something missing.
- Predictability: It can make the story predictable.
Final Thoughts: The Art of the Plot Device
So, what do you think, guys? Have you got any characters in mind that seem to exist purely to serve the plot? Drop them in the comments! Remember, a good story is all about balance. Plot devices can be useful tools when used sparingly. But too many can lead to a shallow and unengaging narrative. It's a balancing act. There is no way around it. Sometimes, these characters are crucial for the plot, and they serve their function. They do not have to be understood, and that's the most important thing. These characters can make a story even better.
