Last Updated on March 17, 2020, by eNotes Editorial. Word Count: 137

When a character doesn’t undergo significant internal changes in a story, we refer to them as static. Internal changes might include changes in perspective, personality, or character. A dynamic character is one that evolves throughout the work and, by the end, is fundamentally altered in some way. Remember, these terms are mutually exclusive! A character must either be static or dynamic; they cannot be both or switch back and forth. It’s also important not to assume that all protagonists are dynamic, just as not all side characters are static.

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Static character example:

• Throughout Doyle’s series, Sherlock Holmes retains his quirky personality, making him a static character.

Dynamic character example:

• Ebenezer Scrooge from A Christmas Carol is a classic example of a character who undergoes major internal changes throughout the story.

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