Crafting Your Main Characters with David L. Coddon

A good novel – in fact, any good story – relies upon conflict, and that generally stems from the interaction between the tale’s hero and foe. Creating heroes, or protagonists, and antagonists who leap off the page is a must for successful writers. This class will show writers how, through examples of established authors and in lesson plans that will encourage the students to write more interesting heroes and antagonists themselves. There also will be a focus on the anti-hero, the unconventional protagonist favored today by so many writers for print, TV and film. What makes these characters effective, and how can I create one?

Topic areas:
• Characteristics of the hero in fiction
• Characteristics of the antihero in fiction
• Characteristics of the antagonist in fiction

Writing exercises include:
• Heroic memoir
• Conversion of hero into antihero, and vice versa
• Character in action
• Writing about the hero or antihero you would like to be

Please Note: This class will be held in person at our space in Liberty Station (Barracks 16, Suite 204 “Inspirations Gallery”). While masks are not required indoors, they are highly recommended.