By Madison Bringhurst.
Though
you could write an entire soliloquy about the amazing character arch Neville
Longbottom has, his unfailing ability to try, or how he overcame a tragic
beginning, the real genius of Neville Longbottom’s character is in JK Rowling’s
ability to use him.
In
the fourth book of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Goblet of
Fire, Neville is shown clumsily falling into the trap of a trick stair after
dinner one evening. The scene paints a vibrant image of the quirky nature of JK
Rowling’s magical world and pairs it with a light-hearted laugh. Though this
great moment in itself would make the scene worth having in the final draft,
its implications for later in the book are what make Neville more than just a
comic relief character. Later in the book, Harry finds himself trapped by the
same stair. Rather than having Harry explain this during a heated moment, thus
taking away from the urgency of the scene, Rowling shows the necessary details earlier
using one of her favorite expositional devices: Neville Longbottom.
When
creating minor characters, the key is to make them work for you. It is
interesting to note that another name for minor characters is supporting
characters. They should do just this. Find ways to fit them into your story
that feel both natural and beneficial. Like Neville Longbottom, make sure the
moments they have in the story have a purpose.
Another
key is only sharing the details that truly benefit the finished product. When
writing about a world you have spent countless hours creating, it is easy to
get lost in the details. Selecting only information that is beneficial to the
reader can be one of the hardest tasks when writing a novel. No matter how
difficult this is, it is a necessity when developing your minor characters.
Using only those details that allow them to support your main character will
help the story stay on track. These characters should never support themselves.
Everything we see them do should move the story and expose the main character.
Though they will likely play a larger role in your mind, this information will
slow the story down and take some of the flow away from your reader’s
experience.
Build
your world with them. Just as Neville is often seen misusing spells and putting
himself in hilariously painful situations, your minor characters should color your
world with important details. Use them to explain hard concepts through
scenarios that show your reader without you having to tell them.
Minor
characters are key to a successful story. Though, like any good thing, if used
incorrectly, it can spell disaster for your project. Turning your supporting
cast into a supportive cast will help your work stand out against the
competition.
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About the Author:
Madison Bringhurst
Madison is an aspiring YA author seeking representation for
her first novel, The Sifting, which explores the concepts and morality behind
the eugenics movement through the eyes of genetically engineered young woman.
She is working on two other YA projects that will be in the editing phase soon.
Twitter Handle: @MadisonBringhu1
