What does "character development" refer to?

Character development refers to the process of creating a believable character and revealing their growth and change throughout the story. This concept is crucial because it helps the audience connect with the characters on a deeper level. Through various experiences, interactions, and challenges, a well-developed character will often evolve, displaying new traits, perspectives, or behaviors as the plot progresses. This growth is central to understanding their motivations and the themes of the narrative.

In literature, character development goes beyond introducing a character's traits; it illustrates how these traits influence their decisions and relationships with others, making their journey relatable and compelling. This development typically includes moments of conflict, decision-making, and resolution that contribute to a reader's understanding of the character and their role in the story.