Who Created The Steal Character Method

Who Created the Steal Character Method? Deconstructing the Myth and Exploring Character Development

The "steal character method" isn't attributed to a single creator. Instead, it's a descriptive term encompassing various techniques used by writers to develop compelling characters. The idea of borrowing aspects from real-life individuals, fictional characters, or even amalgamating traits from multiple sources has existed for as long as storytelling itself. Therefore, pinning down a definitive "creator" is impossible. However, we can explore the historical context, influential figures, and core principles that contribute to this widely adopted approach to character development.

Understanding the "Steal Character Method"

Before diving into the historical aspects, let's clearly define what the "steal character method" entails. It's not about outright plagiarism or copying. Ethical writers use this approach as a springboard for creativity, drawing inspiration from diverse sources to build unique and believable characters. This involves:

• Observational Studies: Carefully observing real people—their mannerisms, speech patterns, reactions, and motivations—to inform fictional characters. This might involve studying friends, family members, or even strangers in public spaces.

• Character Archetypes: Utilizing existing character archetypes (e.g., the hero, the villain, the mentor) as a starting point, but modifying them to avoid clichés and create originality.

• Literary and Fictional Inspiration: Drawing inspiration from existing characters in literature, film, television, or other media. This might involve taking a specific trait, personality quirk, or even a backstory element and adapting it for a new character.

• Personal Experiences: Weaving personal experiences, memories, and emotions into the creation of characters, adding layers of authenticity and depth.

• Fusion and Adaptation: Combining elements from multiple sources to create a unique character that is greater than the sum of its parts.

It's crucial to emphasize that ethical use of this method involves transformation and adaptation. A writer shouldn't simply copy a character verbatim; they should use the inspiration as a foundation upon which to build something new and original.

Historical Context: Tracing the Roots of Character Inspiration

The practice of drawing inspiration from real-life individuals or other fictional characters has deep roots in storytelling history. Ancient myths and epics often feature characters inspired by historical figures or legendary heroes. Consider the influence of real-life figures on Shakespeare's plays, or the numerous historical inspirations behind characters in classical literature.

The development of the novel as a literary form in the 18th and 19th centuries further propelled the evolution of character development techniques. Authors like Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, and George Eliot created complex and believable characters, often drawing on their observations of society and their own personal experiences. While they didn't explicitly articulate a "steal character method," their practices implicitly demonstrate the core principles of this approach.

Key Figures and Their Contributions to Character Development

While no single person "created" the steal character method, several influential writers, theorists, and teachers significantly contributed to the understanding and application of character development techniques.

• Aristotle: His Poetics laid the groundwork for character analysis, emphasizing the importance of believable and consistent characters. While not explicitly advocating for "stealing," his focus on creating characters with clear motivations and actions established a foundation for later methods.

• Joseph Campbell: His work on the "hero's journey" archetype provided a framework for understanding character archetypes and their narrative functions. This framework provides a solid starting point for many writers, although they invariably adapt and personalize it.

• Robert McKee: His influential book, Story, discusses character development in detail, emphasizing the importance of creating characters with complex motivations and internal conflicts. He indirectly supports the use of observation and inspiration as tools for building compelling characters.

• Characters as a Mosaic: The idea of characters as composites, built from fragments of observation and inspiration, has been implicitly discussed by numerous writing instructors and mentors throughout the ages. The process isn't always formally structured but is a common practice.

Ethical Considerations: Avoiding Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement

The ethical use of the "steal character method" is paramount. It's essential to distinguish between inspiration and plagiarism. Drawing inspiration is about using elements as a starting point for creating something new; plagiarism is about directly copying without attribution.

• Transformation and Adaptation: The key is to significantly transform and adapt the source material. A simple change in name or setting isn't enough; the character needs to be fundamentally altered to be considered original.

• Attribution (where appropriate): While not always necessary, acknowledging the inspiration can be a good practice, especially if a character bears a strong resemblance to a specific real-life figure or fictional character. This builds trust and transparency with readers.

• Respect for Intellectual Property: Be mindful of copyright laws, especially when drawing inspiration from copyrighted works. While using archetypes and general concepts is acceptable, directly copying dialogue, plot points, or distinctive characteristics can lead to legal issues.

Practical Applications: How to Use the Steal Character Method Ethically

Here's a practical guide on how to ethically apply the "steal character method" in your writing:

1. Observe and Take Notes: Pay close attention to the people around you. Observe their behavior, speech patterns, and interactions. Note down interesting traits, quirks, or mannerisms. Remember, this is for inspiration, not imitation.

2. Analyze Existing Characters: Study characters from your favorite books, movies, or TV shows. Identify what makes them compelling and what elements you could adapt for your own characters.

3. Brainstorm and Combine: Combine elements from different sources – real-life observations, fictional characters, and your own imagination – to create unique characters. Don't be afraid to experiment and iterate.

4. Develop a Unique Backstory: Give your characters rich and believable backstories that explain their motivations and shape their personalities. This adds depth and makes them more relatable.

5. Add Nuance and Complexity: Avoid creating one-dimensional characters. Give your characters flaws, internal conflicts, and evolving perspectives. This adds realism and engagement.

6. Test and Refine: Once you have a draft of your character, test it out in your story. Does it fit the narrative? Does the character's behavior and motivations feel consistent and believable?

7. Remain Aware of the Ethical Dimensions: Always check your work for originality and ensure you are not inadvertently plagiarizing.

Conclusion: The Evolution of Character Creation

The "steal character method" isn't a singular creation; it's a continuous evolution of character development practices. It's a powerful tool for writers, but it must be used ethically and responsibly. By observing, analyzing, and adapting, writers can draw inspiration from diverse sources to create compelling and original characters that resonate with readers. The key lies in transforming inspiration into creation, ensuring that the final product is unique and reflects the writer's individual voice and vision. The best writers are those who can synthesize diverse inputs to craft something entirely new and compelling. Therefore, the true “creator” is not a single person but the collective storytelling tradition that continues to evolve.