Character Types Explained: Flat, Static, Round & Dynamic

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Published: July 11, 2024 | Last Updated: October 10, 2025

Flat, static, round, and dynamic characters are terms used to describe different aspects of characters in literature and film. While they can overlap, they refer to distinct characteristics.

First, here’s a quick overview of each type:

• Flat characters are simple and one-dimensional. They are defined by a single trait or a few basic characteristics.
• Round characters are complex and multi-dimensional. They have varied traits, backgrounds, and motivations, making them more realistic and relatable.
• Static characters do not undergo significant change or development throughout the story. Their personality, attitudes, and perspectives remain the same from beginning to end.
• Dynamic characters undergo significant internal changes or development throughout the story. These changes can involve personality, outlook, or understanding.

Contrasting Differences

Flat characters are the opposite of round characters, and static characters are the opposite of dynamic ones.

Flat and round characters differ in complexity. Flat characters are simple, while round characters are complex.

Static and dynamic characters differ in development. Static characters do not change, while dynamic characters do.

Traits Overlaps

Now, you might think that flat characters sound awfully a lot like static ones, and round characters appear similar to dynamic ones. That’s because there are overlaps.

A character can be both static and round or flat and static. For example, a character can be complex (round) without undergoing any change (static) or be simple (flat) and also unchanging (static).

For example, a flat and static character might serve as a background figure with little to no development, like a store clerk who is always grumpy. Think about Mr. Collins in Pride and Prejudice, Crabbe and Goyle in the Harry Potter series, or Captain Phasma in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

A round and dynamic character already has a complex personality from the get-go but still undergoes significant change, like Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, Andy Dufresne in The Shawshank Redemption, or Michael Corleone in The Godfather.

Comparison Table of Character Types in Film

Below is a summary table that gives an overview of the various character types, their purpose, and a couple of examples.

Character Type	Definition	Purpose	Examples (Film)
Flat	Simple and one-dimensional, defined by a single trait or few traits.	Advance the plot or support main characters.	– Bruce the Shark in “Finding Nemo” – Mr. Collins in “Pride and Prejudice” (2005)
Static	Do not undergo significant change or development.	Provide consistency, often highlighting changes in dynamic characters.	– Scar in “The Lion King” – James Bond in most James Bond films
Round	Complex and multi-dimensional with varied traits and motivations.	Engage the audience with depth and development.	– Elsa in “Frozen” – Tony Stark in “Iron Man”
Dynamic	Undergo significant internal change or development.	Drive the story forward with growth and development.	– Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars” – Michael Corleone in “The Godfather”
Flat and Static	Simple and unchanging throughout the story.	Serve a specific purpose without complexity or development.	– Bruce the Shark in “Finding Nemo” – Mr. Collins in “Pride and Prejudice” (2005)
Round and Dynamic	Complex and undergo significant change.	Engage the audience with both depth and development.	– Elsa in “Frozen” – Tony Stark in “Iron Man”

Summing Up

Character types are used in literature and film to add depth and complexity to the story.

Static characters remain the same throughout the story, showing little growth or change. Flat characters are one-dimensional and lack depth, often representing stereotypes or archetypes. A character can be both flat and static.

Round characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with depth and development that make them feel like real people. Dynamic characters undergo significant growth or change due to their experiences in the story. A character can be both round and dynamic.