Stock Characters

Stock characters are recognizable, stereotypical figures commonly found in literature, film, and theater. These characters embody specific traits or roles, such as the "hero," "damsel in distress," or "wise old mentor." They help audiences quickly understand their function in a story, as they often represent universal themes or archetypes. While stock characters can enhance storytelling by providing familiarity, relying too heavily on them can lead to predictability or flat characterization. Overall, they serve as shortcuts for both writers and audiences to convey essential ideas and emotions without extensive backstory.