GUIDES

The Redemption Arc: Crafting Convincing Character Growth

Navigating the Complex Journey from Flawed to Redeemed

Wilbur Greene
9 min readOct 2, 2023

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Photo by kai brune

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In the vast realm of storytelling, few narrative devices resonate as profoundly as the redemption arc. At its core, a redemption arc charts a character’s journey from moral wrongdoing or personal flaws to a point of transformation, culminating in their eventual redemption. It’s a trajectory that delves deep into the complexities of regret, atonement, and personal growth.

The appeal of this narrative structure is palpable, evident in its widespread presence across multiple storytelling mediums. From the classical literature of Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables” to modern cinematic masterpieces like Darth Vader’s transformation in the “Star Wars” series, redemption arcs remain a testament to their enduring allure. In television too, characters such as Jaime Lannister from “Game of Thrones” exemplify the intricate dance between fallibility and redemption.

This prevalence is far from coincidental. The redemption arc holds a mirror to our own struggles, aspirations, and the inherent…

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Wilbur Greene

Sydney-based writer, editor, & literary agent. Melbourne Uni alum, ex-HarperCollins & Creative Artists Agency. Now freelance writer & consultant.