English 9 / Unit 2: Characterization and Point of View
2.3 Character Motivation
Notes
Motivation is the reason behind a character's actions: what they want and why.
- Motives can be internal (pride, fear, love) or external (money, a deadline, a threat).
- Ask: What does this character want? What is stopping them? What will they risk?
- Motivations explain conflicts and choices.
- Example: "Dev trained every dawn. His older brother had won the race twice, and Dev was tired of being 'the little one.'" Motive: proving himself.
Practice
"Ava saved every paycheck from the diner. Her grandmother's medical bills were piling up on the counter." Ava's motivation is most likely:
The bills suggest she is saving to help her grandmother.
Which is an internal motivation?
Internal motives come from feelings and desires inside the character.
Why do readers analyze motivation?
Motivation explains behavior.
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