The [word “trope” refers to a common motif or pattern in a work of art](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-tropes-in-writing). In the context of fiction, character tropes refer to common attributes or even entire stock characters. The word trope comes from the Greek word *tropos* meaning “to turn.” Originally it referred to rhetorical devices that a writer uses to develop an argument.

Every genre of storytelling has its own stable of common character types, and as a storyteller it’s worth being aware of them. Here are nine of the most common:

1. __The chosen one__: The chosen one is [a common fantasy trope](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-fantasy-tropes-effectively). Their identity typically revolves around a task that’s been set aside for them, which they typically pursue without much hesitation or complication. Like Frodo Baggins, Luke Skywalker, and Harry Potter, the chosen one is often, conveniently, an orphan.
2. __The damsel in distress__: One of the most common and pernicious types of female character tropes, the damsel in distress, whatever form she takes, is a passive figure who exists mostly as an object for the hero to save. Even versions of the character who turn out to be a little more plucky than expected (think Princess Fiona from *Shrek* or Princess Leia from *Star Wars*) have become their own subset of this creaky old trope.
3. __The femme fatale__: A mysterious and seductive woman who uses her sex appeal to seduce and entrap her enemies, the femme fatale is a popular character trope [in hardboiled mysteries](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-the-mystery-genre). In many ways, the femme fatale is an updated version of supernatural witches or sorceresses. It’s no spoiler to say that she nearly always leads men to destruction.
4. __The girl next door__: The small-town girl with a heart of gold is, in many ways the opposite of the femme fatale. A common film and TV trope, the girl next door is innocent, kind, and wholesome. In other words, she’s the embodiment of domestic femininity and typically a candidate for the male protagonist’s love interest.
5. __The mad scientist__: Going back to Dr. Frankenstein (or any number of sorcerer antecedents), the mad scientist is usually a villain, driven by an eccentric, antisocial personality and unrestrained hubris or a desire to play god. The mad scientist’s benign counterpart is the nerdy “absent-minded professor” who’s so engrossed by their work that they struggle to relate to “normal people.” 
6. __The trusty sidekick__: Like the damsel in distress, the trusty sidekick typically has no life outside their relationship to the main character and their quest. Whether the sidekick is a loyal companion, like Samwise in Tolkien’s *Lord of the Rings*, a faithful butler, or a chatty best friend—[as in any number of romance novels](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/popular-romance-fiction-tropes-to-keep-your-readers-hooked)—their main quality is that they have no story of their own.
7. __The wise old man__: Sometimes an actual wizard, sometimes just an old guy who’s seen his share, the wise old man is a long-enduring stock figure who usually imparts some special wisdom to the protagonist.
8. __The dumb muscle__: Based on the idea that it’s impossible to be smart and fit at the same time, the dumb muscle is an exceedingly common minor character, especially in action and adventure stories. As a bad guy the dumb muscle is easily outsmarted or otherwise bested by the main character. 
9. __The antihero__: Antiheroes are typically cynical loners with major personality flaws, often darkly appealing bad boys. Like normal heroes, the antihero still drives the story, but often to a more amoral place. Tony Soprano, Walter White, Don Draper, and the grittier versions of Batman are all prime examples of modern antiheroes. These days, antiheroes are almost as common as idealized heroes.

Character tropes aren’t good or bad in and of themselves. In some types of fiction, especially epics, satires, and more plot-driven forms of fiction, the use of stock characters can be expected and even desirable. The problem is when writers lean so heavily on these tropes that they’re no longer telling an original story. This is the point where archetypal characters can bleed into stereotypes. In order to avoid (or at least complicate) character tropes, you’ll need to develop a richer sense of your characters. Here are a few tips:

1. __Figure out what your characters really want__. One reason writers lean on stereotypes is because they don’t know their characters well enough. Instead of playing to type, spend some time figuring out [what really motivates your characters](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-believable-characters-using-character-motivation). Are they driven by a need to belong? By a thirst for knowledge? By a desire to be recognized? These super-objectives may lead your characters to buck their outward roles in interesting ways.
2. __Look for opportunities to subvert tropes__. If you find yourself drawn to certain tropes, look for ways to undermine them. While this sort of self-conscious style may not be right for every story, it can be especially compelling in the context of genres that traditionally rely on tropes: Think fantasy novels, horror movies, love stories, westerns, and other popular genres. 
3. __Get to know your characters outside the story__. A common writing exercise is to develop backstories for your major characters. Imagine them in real life. [Ask yourself questions about your characters](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/character-development-questions-to-ask-your-characters), like: What was this person like in high school? What objects are on their nightstand? How do they get along with their families? While seemingly inconsequential, these questions can help you get a sense of the individuality of your characters, rather than just thinking of them as adhering to a common type.
4. __Allow your characters’ personalities to change__. Again, there are types of stories where characters may remain static, but in general, it’s important for readers to [feel like your character changes](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-dynamic-characters) (or at least has the potential to change) over the course of the story. Remember, the change need not always be positive, but there should be some sense that the experience they’ve had has marked them in some way.
5. __Avoid clichéd situations__. Sometimes the issue isn’t with the characters you’ve developed but the scenario in which you’ve placed them. If you’ve created a pair of star-crossed lovers who are meant to fall for one another at first sight, it’ll be hard not to make the situation feel hackneyed—no matter how well-drawn your lovers are. If you’re only thinking in terms of common plot tropes, it may be hard to get your characters out of them. If you’re working in a science fiction or fantasy setting, this is where worldbuilding might help you find more interesting angles to explore.

Become a better writer with the [Masterclass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by literary masters, including Neil Gaiman, David Baldacci, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, Margaret Atwood, and more.

What’s [the difference between a flat character and a well-rounded character](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/round-vs-flat-characters-in-fiction)? How do writers bring a character to life on the page? When it comes to character development, these are central questions—especially when it comes to using character tropes. Character tropes can be useful in fiction, but when overused, they can detract from a story. 

What’s [the difference between a flat character and a well-rounded character](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/round-vs-flat-characters-in-fiction)? How do writers bring a character to life on the page? When it comes to character development, these are central questions—especially when it comes to using character tropes. Character tropes can be useful in fiction, but when overused, they can detract from a story. 

9 Common Character Tropes and Tips for Avoiding Them

The <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-tropes-in-writing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-tropes-in-writing","linkCopy":"word “trope” refers to a common motif or pattern in a work of art","category":null}'>word “trope” refers to a common motif or pattern in a work of art</a>. In the context of fiction, character tropes refer to common attributes or even entire stock characters. The word trope comes from the Greek word tropos meaning “to turn.” Originally it referred to rhetorical devices that a writer uses to develop an argument.

What Are Character Tropes?

Every genre of storytelling has its own stable of common character types, and as a storyteller it’s worth being aware of them. Here are nine of the most common:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. The chosen one: The chosen one is <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-fantasy-tropes-effectively' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-fantasy-tropes-effectively","linkCopy":"a common fantasy trope","category":null}'>a common fantasy trope</a>. Their identity typically revolves around a task that’s been set aside for them, which they typically pursue without much hesitation or complication. Like Frodo Baggins, Luke Skywalker, and Harry Potter, the chosen one is often, conveniently, an orphan. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. The damsel in distress: One of the most common and pernicious types of female character tropes, the damsel in distress, whatever form she takes, is a passive figure who exists mostly as an object for the hero to save. Even versions of the character who turn out to be a little more plucky than expected (think Princess Fiona from Shrek or Princess Leia from Star Wars) have become their own subset of this creaky old trope. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. The femme fatale: A mysterious and seductive woman who uses her sex appeal to seduce and entrap her enemies, the femme fatale is a popular character trope <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-the-mystery-genre' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-the-mystery-genre","linkCopy":"in hardboiled mysteries","category":null}'>in hardboiled mysteries</a>. In many ways, the femme fatale is an updated version of supernatural witches or sorceresses. It’s no spoiler to say that she nearly always leads men to destruction. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. The girl next door: The small-town girl with a heart of gold is, in many ways the opposite of the femme fatale. A common film and TV trope, the girl next door is innocent, kind, and wholesome. In other words, she’s the embodiment of domestic femininity and typically a candidate for the male protagonist’s love interest. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. The mad scientist: Going back to Dr. Frankenstein (or any number of sorcerer antecedents), the mad scientist is usually a villain, driven by an eccentric, antisocial personality and unrestrained hubris or a desire to play god. The mad scientist’s benign counterpart is the nerdy “absent-minded professor” who’s so engrossed by their work that they struggle to relate to “normal people.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 6. The trusty sidekick: Like the damsel in distress, the trusty sidekick typically has no life outside their relationship to the main character and their quest. Whether the sidekick is a loyal companion, like Samwise in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, a faithful butler, or a chatty best friend—<a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/popular-romance-fiction-tropes-to-keep-your-readers-hooked' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/popular-romance-fiction-tropes-to-keep-your-readers-hooked","linkCopy":"as in any number of romance novels","category":null}'>as in any number of romance novels</a>—their main quality is that they have no story of their own. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 7. The wise old man: Sometimes an actual wizard, sometimes just an old guy who’s seen his share, the wise old man is a long-enduring stock figure who usually imparts some special wisdom to the protagonist. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 8. The dumb muscle: Based on the idea that it’s impossible to be smart and fit at the same time, the dumb muscle is an exceedingly common minor character, especially in action and adventure stories. As a bad guy the dumb muscle is easily outsmarted or otherwise bested by the main character. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 9. The antihero: Antiheroes are typically cynical loners with major personality flaws, often darkly appealing bad boys. Like normal heroes, the antihero still drives the story, but often to a more amoral place. Tony Soprano, Walter White, Don Draper, and the grittier versions of Batman are all prime examples of modern antiheroes. These days, antiheroes are almost as common as idealized heroes. </li></ol>

9 Common Character Tropes

Character tropes aren’t good or bad in and of themselves. In some types of fiction, especially epics, satires, and more plot-driven forms of fiction, the use of stock characters can be expected and even desirable. The problem is when writers lean so heavily on these tropes that they’re no longer telling an original story. This is the point where archetypal characters can bleed into stereotypes. In order to avoid (or at least complicate) character tropes, you’ll need to develop a richer sense of your characters. Here are a few tips:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Figure out what your characters really want. One reason writers lean on stereotypes is because they don’t know their characters well enough. Instead of playing to type, spend some time figuring out <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-believable-characters-using-character-motivation' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-believable-characters-using-character-motivation","linkCopy":"what really motivates your characters","category":null}'>what really motivates your characters</a>. Are they driven by a need to belong? By a thirst for knowledge? By a desire to be recognized? These super-objectives may lead your characters to buck their outward roles in interesting ways. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Look for opportunities to subvert tropes. If you find yourself drawn to certain tropes, look for ways to undermine them. While this sort of self-conscious style may not be right for every story, it can be especially compelling in the context of genres that traditionally rely on tropes: Think fantasy novels, horror movies, love stories, westerns, and other popular genres. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Get to know your characters outside the story. A common writing exercise is to develop backstories for your major characters. Imagine them in real life. <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/character-development-questions-to-ask-your-characters' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/character-development-questions-to-ask-your-characters","linkCopy":"Ask yourself questions about your characters","category":null}'>Ask yourself questions about your characters</a>, like: What was this person like in high school? What objects are on their nightstand? How do they get along with their families? While seemingly inconsequential, these questions can help you get a sense of the individuality of your characters, rather than just thinking of them as adhering to a common type. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Allow your characters’ personalities to change. Again, there are types of stories where characters may remain static, but in general, it’s important for readers to <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-dynamic-characters' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-dynamic-characters","linkCopy":"feel like your character changes","category":null}'>feel like your character changes</a> (or at least has the potential to change) over the course of the story. Remember, the change need not always be positive, but there should be some sense that the experience they’ve had has marked them in some way. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Avoid clichéd situations. Sometimes the issue isn’t with the characters you’ve developed but the scenario in which you’ve placed them. If you’ve created a pair of star-crossed lovers who are meant to fall for one another at first sight, it’ll be hard not to make the situation feel hackneyed—no matter how well-drawn your lovers are. If you’re only thinking in terms of common plot tropes, it may be hard to get your characters out of them. If you’re working in a science fiction or fantasy setting, this is where worldbuilding might help you find more interesting angles to explore. </li></ol>

5 Tips for Avoiding Character Tropes

Become a better writer with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/","linkCopy":"Masterclass Annual Membership","category":null}'>Masterclass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by literary masters, including Neil Gaiman, David Baldacci, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, Margaret Atwood, and more.

Want to Learn More About Writing?

What’s <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/round-vs-flat-characters-in-fiction' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/round-vs-flat-characters-in-fiction","linkCopy":"the difference between a flat character and a well-rounded character","category":null}'>the difference between a flat character and a well-rounded character</a>? How do writers bring a character to life on the page? When it comes to character development, these are central questions—especially when it comes to using character tropes. Character tropes can be useful in fiction, but when overused, they can detract from a story.

What’s the difference between a flat character and a well-rounded character (https://www.masterclass.com/articles/round-vs-flat-characters-in-fiction)? How do writers bring a character to life on the page? When it comes to character development, these are central questions—especially when it comes to using character tropes. Character tropes can be useful in fiction, but when overused, they can detract from a story. 
