I’m a writer blog

Guidelines for writing Poems, Stories and Tales

Creating a flawed but not unlikable character

How do you make a good flawed character?

10 Flawed Character Writing Tips to Make Your Story More Engaging

  1. Make sure your character’s flaws are relatable.
  2. Ensure that their character flaws add depth to their personality.
  3. Avoid making your character flaws too over-the-top or unbelievable.
  4. Create a balance between positive and negative qualities.

What is the importance of creative flawed character instead of perfect character?

Flawed characters add depth and interest to a story because they are complex, and our flaws are what make us human. A perfect character can be boring because they have no flaws or failings, and by default, their struggle is that much easier.

How do you make a character with flaws?

Build each character carefully. Give them flaws based on their unique personalities and backstories. Don’t just slap a flaw on your characters to try and make them feel authentic. Weave major or fatal flaws into the backstory, match minor flaws to personality.

Can a character be too flawed?

An overly flawed character is almost as bad as a flawless character. Oftentimes, overly flawed characters are the result of writers wanting to add depth to a character, but overloading a single character with several flaws too many can make a work seem shallow.

What are good fatal flaws?

Tragic/fatal flaw



Examples of this could include hubris, misplaced trust, excessive curiosity, pride and lack of self-control. This fall usually occurs at the beginning of a story, with the story itself concentrating on the consequences or attempted redemption of the fall.

What are deep character flaws?

It is a flaw which causes an otherwise noble or exceptional character to bring about their own downfall and, often, their eventual death. Examples of this could include hubris, misplaced trust, excessive curiosity, pride, and lack of self-control.

Why do authors create flawed characters?

A character’s flaws serve many functions, particularly ensuring that the character is relatable and engaged in inner conflict. Carefully crafted flaws can do the following: Make the character relatable to an audience of readers or viewers. Present an obstacle that must be overcome during the course of the story.

What are the best character flaws?

Here are some common character flaws – and some less obvious ones – you might consider:

  • Arrogant or vain.
  • Conceited or self righteous.
  • Narcissistic or self centered.
  • Libidinous or having excessive desire.
  • Predatory.
  • Excessive pride.
  • Deluded.
  • Boastful.

Is it common for powerful leaders to have flawed characters?

Most Leaders Know Their Strengths — but Are Oblivious to Their Weaknesses. And roughly 30% of leaders have at least one fatal flaw.

What makes a flawed hero?

Characteristics of Tragic Heroes



Hubris – or arrogance, excessive pride. Hamartia – a fatal flaw; an error in judgement, or self-deception. Peripeteia – the sudden turning point; the error in judgement leading to a reversal of fortune. Anagnorisis – recognition of their tragic mistake.

What are the best character flaws?

Here are some common character flaws – and some less obvious ones – you might consider:

  • Arrogant or vain.
  • Conceited or self righteous.
  • Narcissistic or self centered.
  • Libidinous or having excessive desire.
  • Predatory.
  • Excessive pride.
  • Deluded.
  • Boastful.

What would be a character flaw?

What is a character flaw? A character flaw is a fault, limitation, or weakness. (Never in ourselves though, that’s why we call it fiction.) Flaws can be internal or external factors that affect your character and how they live their life.