How to introduce a character in your novel

A character's introduction can set the tone for their role in your narrative, making it an essential aspect of storytelling. The way you introduce a character in your story can influence your reader's perception of them.

An effective character introduction can:

• Establish character traits: A character's introduction is an opportunity to give readers a glimpse into their personality, values, and motivations.
• Set the mood: The introduction can help set the tone for the character's role in the story.
• Stimulate interest: A compelling introduction can pique the reader's curiosity, making them eager to learn more about the character.

How to introduce a character

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to introducing a new character. The strategy you choose should align with your narrative style, the character's role, and the specific context of your story.

Some ways you might introduce a character:

• Through action: Introducing your character in the middle of an action can make their entrance dynamic and engaging. This strategy also allows them to show their skills, personality, or values.
• Through dialogue: Characters can also be introduced through conversations with other characters. This can give readers insights into their personality, relationships, and background.
• Through description: An in-depth description can paint a vivid picture of the character, giving readers an immediate sense of who they are. But remember, it's best to avoid 'info-dumping' and instead sprinkle these details throughout the narrative.
• Through other characters' perspectives: Seeing the character through another character's eyes can provide unique insights into their personality and role in the story.

Tips for a successful character introduction

• Make it memorable: Strive to make your character's introduction unique and engaging to leave a lasting impression on your readers.
• Keep it relevant: Ensure that the introduction reveals relevant information about the character. What do readers need to know about them right now?
• Avoid clichés: Try to steer clear of overused introduction techniques, such as having characters describe themselves while looking in a mirror.

Examples of character introductions

Through action

In The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins introduces Katniss Everdeen through action. Right from the start, she's shown sneaking out of the boundaries of her district to hunt for food to feed her family. This introduction establishes her as resourceful and brave, and immediately sets the stakes of her harsh environment as well as her role as a caretaker, which are central to her character throughout the series.

Through dialogue

The introduction of Sherlock Holmes in A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle is a classic example of introduction through dialogue. When Dr. Watson first meets Holmes, their conversation quickly reveals Holmes’s sharp observational skills and eccentric personality. Holmes's dialogue about his work as a consulting detective and his unique methods of deduction instantly gives readers a profound insight into his character.

Through description

In Moby-Dick, Herman Melville introduces Captain Ahab with a compelling description long before he actually appears on the scene. Through the fearful and awed talks of the ship’s crew, Melville builds up Ahab's character as enigmatic and domineering. When Ahab finally appears, his striking description, including his ivory leg and somber demeanor, deepens the ominous aura that surrounds him, enhancing the readers' anticipation and anxiety about his role in the story.

Through other characters' perspectives

In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald introduces Jay Gatsby through the eyes of Nick Carraway. Before meeting Gatsby, Nick hears rumors and builds expectations based on the lavish, mysterious parties Gatsby throws and the gossip of the other guests. This method of introduction creates a sense of mystery and grandeur around him.

Point-of-view when introducing characters

In storytelling, point-of-view shapes how a narrative unfolds and how characters are perceived.

How to introduce a character in first person

In first person narratives, characters are introduced through the lens of the narrator's personal experiences and opinions. This can make introductions highly subjective, providing direct insight into the relationship between the narrator and other characters. It allows for an intimate connection but may limit the portrayal to the narrator's knowledge and biases.

How to introduce a character in second person

Second person point-of-view can create a unique and immersive experience, making the reader feel like part of the story. Introducing other characters from this viewpoint can feel direct and personal.

How to introduce a character in third person limited

Third person limited is similar to the first person, but slightly more detached. The narrator can only reveal what the focal character knows or observes. This can create deeper empathy for the focal character while maintaining a bit of narrative distance.

How to introduce a character in third person omniscient

With the third person omniscient point-of-view, characters can be introduced with comprehensive details about their thoughts, backgrounds, and motivations. It allows for a broader understanding of each character from multiple perspectives, but there's a risk of overwhelming the reader with too much information at once.

How to introduce a character in third person objective

In third person objective, characters are introduced only through their actions and dialogue, similar to a movie camera. This can challenge the writer to show character traits and motivations purely through external behaviors.

How to introduce a character in stream of consciousness

Characters might be introduced in a fragmented or non-linear fashion, mirroring real-life thoughts and perceptions. This can provide a deeply personal and intricate understanding of characters but may require careful reading to piece together clear images.

Balancing detail and intrigue

Your goal is to balance detail with the need to maintain intrigue — aim to provide enough detail to form a clear image of the character’s key traits and their relevance to the story without overwhelming the reader.

Timing

The timing of a character's introduction can significantly impact how readers perceive them. Introducing the main character early helps establish a connection with the reader and sets the stage for their journey. For secondary characters, timing should serve the plot development.

In To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout Finch is introduced immediately, setting her point-of-view as the lens for the story, while other key characters are introduced as their influence on Scout's life becomes relevant.

Revisiting characters

Writers can revisit and expand upon a character’s introduction by unfolding deeper layers of their personality or backstory as the plot progresses. Using techniques like flashbacks (carefully!), revelations, and evolving relationships can enrich initial impressions.

In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet’s opinions of Darcy change dramatically as more of his character is revealed, allowing the reader to re-evaluate him alongside Elizabeth.

Introducing antagonists and villains

Introducing a villain or antagonist often involves highlighting their opposition to the protagonist’s goals or values, but it's important to avoid one-dimensional portrayals. For a more engaging introduction, show their motivations or vulnerabilities.

In The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal Lecter is introduced in a chilling, controlled environment, reflecting his menacing intelligence and the threat he poses, while also hinting at his complex psyche.

Cultural considerations

When introducing characters from diverse cultural backgrounds (especially cultures different from your own), handle their portrayal with accuracy and respect. Do your research, avoid stereotypes, and consider getting a beta reader who can evaluate your portrayal.

Adapting techniques for different genres

Character introduction techniques vary widely across genres, and adapting your technique to the genre helps set the appropriate expectations and tone.

• In fantasy, characters might be introduced with an emphasis on their role within a vast, intricate world, often using descriptive passages that highlight unique traits or magical abilities.
• A realistic fiction might focus more on psychological depth and relational dynamics introduced through mundane yet revealing actions or dialogues.
• Comedy often relies on exaggerated characteristics or humorous situations for introductions, while drama might utilize intense conflicts or moral dilemmas.

Character introduction tropes

Common tropes in character introductions include the overused "new kid in school" or "retiring detective gets a final case" — try to find a twist on these sorts of introductions to keep them fresh.