How to Train Your Dragon Characters: Crafting Believable Heroes and Dragons
Understanding the Core Elements of How to Train Your Dragon Characters
The world of Berk, with its Viking inhabitants and fire-breathing dragons, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise isn’t just a visual spectacle; it’s a masterclass in character development. From the awkward but brilliant Hiccup to the fiercely loyal Toothless, the characters resonate deeply, making the story unforgettable. The franchise’s enduring success stems from its nuanced and relatable characters, both human and dragon. This article delves into the techniques used to create compelling figures akin to those in “How to Train Your Dragon,” offering a guide to crafting your own believable heroes and their dragon companions.
The inhabitants of Berk, human and dragon alike, aren’t just archetypes; they’re fully realized individuals who evolve throughout the narrative. Their foundation lies in a delicate balance of established archetypes, cleverly subverted expectations, relatable flaws, and deep, meaningful relationships.
Archetypes and Their Subversion
Stories often rely on familiar character types, offering audiences a comfortable starting point. “How to Train Your Dragon” skillfully utilizes archetypes like “the unlikely hero,” embodied by Hiccup, who starts as a scrawny outcast and blossoms into a courageous leader. The “wise mentor,” seen in Gobber the Belch, provides guidance, though often with a healthy dose of humor. Even the fearsome Toothless, in the beginning, represents the “monstrous beast” archetype. However, the franchise shines by subverting these expectations.
Hiccup’s heroism isn’t born from brute strength or inherent confidence but from his intellect, empathy, and willingness to challenge tradition. Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father, initially appears as the stoic, unwavering chieftain, dedicated to protecting his people. But underneath his gruff exterior lies a deep-seated fear of failure and an inability to express his love and pride for his son. Toothless, initially perceived as a terrifying Night Fury, reveals himself to be an intelligent, playful, and fiercely loyal companion. By twisting these familiar roles, the story creates characters that are both recognizable and refreshingly original.
Flaws and Vulnerabilities
Perfect characters are boring characters. The strength of the “How to Train Your Dragon” characters lies in their inherent imperfections. These flaws make them relatable, allowing audiences to connect with their struggles and triumphs on a deeper level.
Hiccup, for example, is physically awkward, socially inept, and plagued by self-doubt. He yearns to prove himself to his father and the Viking community but constantly falls short of their expectations. This vulnerability is what makes his journey so compelling. Astrid Hofferson, while a skilled warrior, initially struggles with her own insecurities and fears. Her initial aggression and competitive spirit mask a desire to prove her worth in a society that often undervalues women. Stoick’s inability to express his emotions and his unwavering adherence to tradition blinds him to Hiccup’s true potential, leading to conflict and heartache. These flaws aren’t simply plot devices; they are integral to the characters’ identities and drive their growth throughout the series.
Strong Relationships
The heart of “How to Train Your Dragon” lies in the power of relationships. The connection between characters isn’t merely functional; it’s deeply emotional and transformative. These relationships, both human and dragon, are the driving force behind the narrative and provide opportunities for growth and change.
The bond between Hiccup and Toothless is the cornerstone of the entire franchise. It’s a symbiotic relationship built on mutual respect, understanding, and unwavering loyalty. Hiccup recognizes Toothless’s intelligence and individuality, treating him as an equal rather than a pet. Toothless, in turn, provides Hiccup with confidence, support, and a sense of belonging. The strained relationship between Hiccup and Stoick is another central theme. Stoick’s traditional Viking values clash with Hiccup’s innovative thinking, leading to misunderstandings and resentment. However, through sacrifice and shared experiences, they eventually bridge the gap and forge a strong father-son bond. Even the dynamic between Hiccup and Astrid evolves from rivalry to romance, showcasing the power of mutual respect and admiration.
Creating Your Own Dragon Training Characters
Inspired by the world of Berk? Let’s explore how you can design your own memorable and engaging “How to Train Your Dragon” characters.
Designing Compelling Human Characters
Crafting memorable human characters requires careful consideration of their background, personality, and overall arc.
Background and Motivation
Before putting pen to paper, delve into your character’s past. What shaped them? What are their hopes, dreams, and fears? A well-developed backstory provides a foundation for their actions and motivations. Are they driven by a desire for acceptance, a thirst for adventure, or a need to prove themselves? Understanding their background will inform their choices and reactions throughout the story.
Personality and Quirks
Give your character a unique personality that sets them apart. Are they optimistic or cynical? Introverted or extroverted? Do they have any peculiar habits or mannerisms? Quirks can add depth and memorability to a character, making them feel more real and relatable. Don’t be afraid to embrace contradictions. A brave warrior might be secretly afraid of heights, or a wise mentor might have a silly sense of humor.
Character Arc
A compelling character doesn’t remain static. They should grow and evolve throughout the story. Plan their character arc from the beginning. What challenges will they face? How will they overcome them? What lessons will they learn? Consider their initial state, the pivotal moments that force them to change, and their final transformation. This arc should be both believable and satisfying for the reader.
Bringing Dragons to Life
Dragons in “How to Train Your Dragon” are more than just fearsome beasts; they are individuals with their own personalities and quirks.
Species and Abilities
Determine the dragon’s species and its unique abilities. Is it a fire-breathing Monstrous Nightmare, a stealthy Night Fury, or a gentle Gronckle? Research different dragon types and their characteristics, drawing inspiration from real-world animals. Consider their size, strength, and any special skills they possess. A dragon’s abilities should be consistent with its species and integrated into the story in a meaningful way.
Personality and Temperament
Just like humans, dragons should have distinct personalities. Is your dragon playful and energetic, or calm and reserved? Is it fiercely loyal or independent? Consider how the dragon’s personality complements or contrasts with its human partner. A grumpy dragon might be paired with an optimistic rider, creating humorous and heartwarming interactions.
Non-Verbal Communication
Since dragons can’t speak human languages, explore how they communicate through body language, gestures, and vocalizations. A flick of the tail, a growl, or a head tilt can convey a wide range of emotions. Pay close attention to the dragon’s eyes, as they can be incredibly expressive. Mastering non-verbal communication is crucial for building a strong bond between the dragon and its rider. Their connection can be portrayed through shared looks, intuitive understanding, and a deep sense of trust.
Examples of Character Development Exercises
To help you flesh out your “How to Train Your Dragon” inspired characters, here are some exercises.
“What If” Scenarios
Put your characters in hypothetical situations and explore their reactions. What if the main character lost their dragon? What if they were faced with an impossible choice? What if they had to confront their greatest fear? These scenarios can reveal hidden aspects of their personality and motivations.
Dialogue Prompts
Create scenes where your characters must interact and resolve a conflict. Focus on their communication styles, emotional responses, and how their relationships influence their decisions. For example, write a scene where a rider and their dragon must work together to escape a dangerous situation, or a scene where two rivals must put aside their differences to achieve a common goal.
Backstory Exploration
Write short stories or journal entries from your character’s perspective, exploring their past experiences and motivations. What were their childhood dreams? What are their biggest regrets? Uncovering hidden details about their backstory will add depth and complexity to their character.
Conclusion
Crafting compelling characters in the vein of “How to Train Your Dragon” requires a deep understanding of human nature and a willingness to embrace imperfections. By focusing on creating relatable flaws, building meaningful relationships, and developing compelling motivations, you can create characters that resonate with audiences on a personal level.
The magic of “How to Train Your Dragon” lies in its ability to create characters that are both fantastical and deeply human. These are characters that grapple with issues of belonging, acceptance, and the courage to embrace their individuality. By focusing on the core elements of character development, anyone can craft their own heroes and dragons, creating stories that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
