#62: Characters With Too Many Flaws

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  As I've said in the past, it is not at all a good idea to create a bland character for any kind of story.  They are usually the one thing that ruins a story, and can be replaced with pretty much anyone else.  That is why a character like Bella Swan isn't generally liked by an audience, but a complex character like Walter White is.  The difference between the two characters is that Walter White has a ton of character flaws, which makes him more interesting character wise than Bella.  All Bella has is that she is kind of withdrawn.  Otherwise, she could easily be replaced by another character.  There is a reason why people write so many fan fiction stories about themselves ending up with Edward or Jacob, instead of trying to expand on Bella's story.  Character flaws help to create great characters, who are more remembered for standing out.

  However, there is a huge risk with adding character flaws as well.  Add too many of them, and you'll create an all new cliche.  Your character will either become as annoying as Jar Jar Binks, or be as unlikable as Heather in the first season of Total Drama.  Just adding three or four quirks to a character will really put your point across, and stop your character from trying into another cliche. 

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