Motive
Definition
Motive refers to the underlying reason behind a character's actions or behaviors. It provides insight into why characters make certain choices or engage in specific actions, often driving the plot forward and shaping their development.
Related terms
Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces, which can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or with society), often influencing motives.
Foil Character: A character who contrasts with another character, highlighting their differences and emphasizing their motives.
Theme: The central idea or message conveyed by a literary work, which can be influenced by the motives of the characters involved.
"Motive" appears in:
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