CharacterIntermediate
Stereotype
A reductive character pattern based on inherited social assumptions.
Principle
Stereotype replaces observation with received simplification.
Takeaways
- It narrows character into a cultural shortcut.
- It can harm both craft and ethics.
- Subversion requires more than reversing a single trait.
Overview
A stereotype is a flattened representation that relies on social cliché rather than particularity. Unlike an archetype or stock role, it often imports unexamined assumptions about identity, class, gender, race, age, or culture.
Examples
- A character's entire personality is reduced to accent and occupation.
- A supposed subversion keeps the same assumptions while changing only competence.