Tempramental Character

Temperamental characters are those whose emotions run hot and cold, often fluctuating rapidly. They wear their hearts on their sleeves, their moods a vibrant tapestry woven with passion, frustration, and everything in between. While captivating in their intensity, their unpredictability can create challenges in relationships and navigating life. But beneath the surface of these fiery personalities lie depths waiting to be explored.

Shades of Temperament

Temperament isn't a monolith. It manifests in various ways. Here are some common types:

The Mercurial: This character can shift moods like the wind. One moment they're jovial, the next a thundercloud looms. They might find humor in dark situations and struggle with boredom, constantly seeking stimulation. Think of a Shakespearean heroine, her laughter turning to tears in a heartbeat.

The Passionate: This individual lives with an open heart. Love, anger, and joy are all experienced intensely. They inspire devotion in others but can be easily hurt or angered. Characters like Vincent Van Gogh, known for their fiery creativity and emotional struggles, embody this temperament.

The Brooding: This character keeps their emotions bottled up, simmering beneath the surface. They might be fiercely independent and cynical, prone to outbursts when their internal pressure builds. One might think of iconic characters like Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, whose aloofness eventually melts into passionate declarations.

The Roots of the Storm

Understanding the reasons behind a character's temperament can add depth and complexity. Here are some possibilities:

Past experiences: A traumatic event, loss, or betrayal can leave emotional scars and lead to hypervigilance or withdrawal.

Unmet needs: Underlying desires for security, love, or recognition can fuel frustration and anger when those needs aren't met.

Neurological factors: There's a growing understanding of how brain chemistry and conditions like ADHD or bipolar disorder can influence emotional regulation.

The Tempestuous Journey

A temperamental character's journey is often one of self-discovery and emotional control. Here are some potential narratives:

Learning acceptance: The character might learn to accept their emotional nature while finding healthy ways to express it. This can involve mindfulness practices, creative outlets, or seeking professional help.

Building resilience: Through life experiences and relationships, the character learns to bounce back from emotional blows and find inner strength.

Unveiling the vulnerability: The character's initial outward fierceness might be a defense mechanism. As they learn to trust others, they reveal a hidden vulnerability, fostering deeper connections.

Crafting a Captivating Character

Here are some tips for writing a compelling temperamental character:

Show, don't tell: Use vivid descriptions of body language, facial expressions, and actions to convey their emotions.

Internal conflict: Give the character an internal struggle. Do they yearn for stability? Are they afraid to get hurt? Explore the battles they fight within.

Trigger points: Identify what sets them off. Is it criticism, feeling powerless, or a perceived threat? Use these triggers to propel the plot and create tension.

Growth and development: Don't leave the character static. Show how they learn and change through their experiences.

Examples of Temperamental Characters in Literature

Scarlett O'Hara (Gone with the Wind): Fiercely independent and passionate, Scarlett's determination borders on ruthlessness. She learns to soften but retains a fierce spark.

Elizabeth Bennet (Pride and Prejudice): Witty and intelligent, Elizabeth masks her feelings with sarcasm. She learns to recognize her own prejudice and trust her heart.

Heathcliff (Wuthering Heights): Consumed by revenge and a twisted form of love, Heathcliff embodies the destructive side of a passionate temperament.

In conclusion, temperamental characters are more than just emotional outbursts. They are complex individuals with a depth of feeling and a capacity for growth. By exploring the roots of their temperament and their journey towards self-discovery, you can create a character who resonates with readers and leaves a lasting impression.