CHARACTER TYPE AND TROPE THESAURUS

WHISKEY PRIEST



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HELPFUL TIP:

Using a trope or archetype helps readers quickly understand a character, but stopping there creates a weak and predictable figure. Instead, add depth with a unique backstory, emotional wounds, and related fears and flaws. You can also break expectations with an unusual job, relationship, secret, or positive trait.
DESCRIPTION:
A well-meaning priest, pastor, or other religious professional who exhibits moral weakness through a particular vice. Though he is acutely aware of his personal flaws, he continues to carry out his sacramental duties and takes his responsibility toward his charges seriously.

FICTIONAL EXAMPLES:
Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale (The Scarlet Letter), Father Donald Callahan (Salem's Lot, The Dark Tower), Friar Tuck (Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves), Imperius (Ladyhawke)

COMMON STRENGTHS:
CAUTIOUS, CENTERED, COOPERATIVE, COURTEOUS, DIPLOMATIC, DISCREET, EMPATHETIC, GENEROUS, GENTLE, KIND, NURTURING, OBSERVANT, PASSIONATE, PATIENT, PERSUASIVE, PRIVATE, PROTECTIVE, RESPONSIBLE, SPIRITUAL, SUPPORTIVE, WISE

COMMON WEAKNESSES:
ADDICTIVE, COMPULSIVE, COWARDLY, EVASIVE, HUMORLESS, HYPOCRITICAL, INSECURE, NOSY, SELF-INDULGENT, WEAK-WILLED, WITHDRAWN

ASSOCIATED ACTIONS, BEHAVIORS, AND TENDENCIES:
Struggling with personal demons
Being burdened with a dark secret
Having compassion for others
Feeling deeply compelled to serve God to the best of their ability
Feeling guilty about past mistakes or present weaknesses
Seeking redemption or forgiveness
Willingly making sacrifices for others
Being an outcast or outlaw
Encouraging others despite their own struggles
Being highly empathetic
Humility
Standing up for what what's right
Struggling with their faith
Forgiving the mistakes and vices of others
Feeling a measure of redemption from helping those in their charge
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FEARS THAT MIGHT LIMIT THE CHARACTER:
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SITUATIONS THAT WILL CHALLENGE THEM:
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INNER STRUGGLES TO GIVE THEM DEPTH:
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CLICHÉS TO BE AWARE OF:
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TWIST THIS TROPE WITH A CHARACTER WHO...:
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CREATE SOMETHING NEW:
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