In The Storytelling Animal, character development is more than a tool for advancing the plot; it is a central mechanism through which narratives achieve their psychological impact. Gottschall discusses how characters are crafted to evoke empathy from the audience, allowing a vicarious experience of the joys, sorrows, and challenges faced by these fictional personas. This connection, he argues, often influences real-life emotions and decisions, highlighting the power of well-developed characters to transcend the pages of books or scenes in movies. Characters, he contends, function as psychological anchors in the narrative, providing a means for the audience to explore complex human traits and dilemmas within a safe, structured environment. Gottschall argues this exploration helps cultivate a deeper understanding of human nature and one’s own self.

Conflict is the driving force of narrative dynamics in storytelling, as described by Gottschall. He posits that without conflict, stories lack the emotional and intellectual engagement that characterizes compelling narratives. Conflict introduces the essential tension and suspense that captivate the audience, providing a framework within which characters can develop and reveal their deepest values and personalities. Whether it’s human versus nature, individual against society, or internal battles within the character, these conflicts mirror the trials and tribulations of real life, serving as both entertainment and a profound source of insight.