The hottest Character analysis Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

What's Not to Like about "Unlikeable Characters"?

Counter Craft • 663 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
📚 Literature Character analysis Narrative structure Literary Criticism Author insights
  1. Unlikeable characters can make stories more interesting. They often show us different sides of life and human behavior that we don't see in more traditional, likable characters.
  2. Many readers prefer likable characters, but this can limit their reading experience. Reading about flawed or difficult characters can help us understand diverse perspectives and complexities in human nature.
  3. Literature should strive to showcase a wide range of characters, even the odd or unappealing ones. This variety adds depth to stories and enriches our understanding of the world.

Twenty-nine facts about Richard III

The Common Reader • 1204 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
📚 Literature Shakespeare Drama History Tragedy Character analysis
  1. Richard III starts with the main character sharing his feelings, which is not typical in Shakespeare's plays. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his character.
  2. The play was likely written between 1587 and 1592, and it’s one of Shakespeare’s earlier works. It gained popularity quickly, evidenced by multiple editions being published.
  3. Unlike many stories, Richard III has no side plots, which keeps the focus solely on Richard's journey. This clarity helps highlight the themes of free will and identity.

Some Thoughts on the Meaning Behind the Characters in the Brave New World

Through A Glass Darkly • 845 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📚 Literature Character analysis Symbolism Critique Historical context
  1. The characters in Brave New World represent extremes of societal expectations and moral reflections.
  2. Aldous Huxley uses Shakespeare's works to mock the failed American experiment for a better world.
  3. The story tackles themes of free will, conditioning, and the struggle against oppressive societal structures.

Psychogeology

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 1258 implied HN points • 20 Aug 22
📚 Literature Fiction Character analysis Magic
  1. Granny Weatherwax from the Discworld novels by Terry Pratchett embodies practicality and headology over showy magic, reflecting a unique approach to witchcraft.
  2. The concept of headology in the novels emphasizes the differences between the magic of witches, grounded in nature and practicality, and the magic of wizards, which is more theoretical and power-oriented.
  3. In the Discworld universe, witches like Granny Weatherwax draw strength from the land they inhabit, reflecting the psychogeology of their surroundings in their character and practice.
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Merlin and the Wild People of the Woods in the British tradition

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 339 implied HN points • 26 Nov 22
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Character analysis
  1. The post discusses Merlin and the Wild People of the Woods in the British tradition; it explores Celtic myth and the character of Merlin.
  2. The content is for paid subscribers only, indicating exclusive access to deeper insights and discussions on the topic.
  3. It acknowledges the readers' interest in mythology, particularly Celtic myth, and aims to provide a different perspective on the subject.

How do you know if your Eureka moments are real?

The Recovering Academic • 178 implied HN points • 23 May 23
📚 Literature Reading Character analysis Writing Style
  1. Eureka moments may not always happen instantly; often, taking a break or diverting attention can lead to a breakthrough.
  2. Resilience and growth mindset are crucial in the pursuit of one's dreams, even if faced with setbacks or challenges.
  3. Finding meaning and purpose in life, even after loss or disappointment, can help in navigating through difficult times and moving forward.

The Gamemaster's Anger and Fear

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 59 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
📚 Literature Classic literature Mythology Narrative structure Character analysis Narrative Techniques
  1. The encounter between Achilles and Aeneas in the Iliad showcases a complex interplay of heroic motifs and meta-moments, inviting audience engagement in different narrative levels.
  2. The use of 'pivotal contrafactuals' in the text creates tension and deviation from traditional narratives, allowing for exploration of alternative outcomes that challenge the epic tradition.
  3. The divine intervention in the narrative, such as Poseidon's interference to save Aeneas, highlights themes of fate, emotion, and the role of gods as game masters shaping the story.

Merely the Third To Kill Me

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📚 Literature Classics Narrative Techniques Character analysis Prophecy Epic poetry
  1. Patroklos' death in the Iliad is a pivotal moment that redirects Achilles' rage towards Hektor and explores themes of hubris and fate.
  2. The use of apostrophe in Homer, like directly addressing characters, creates emotional impact and immersion for the audience.
  3. Hektor's role in Patroklos' death raises questions about heroism, fate, and the ambivalence towards excellence in warfare.

EXTRACTS: Starbuck Doubleshot

All Visible Objects • 39 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
📚 Literature Author Character analysis Book analysis
  1. The name Starbuck may have origins related to water, with various theories suggesting connections to rivers and streams, and it doesn't sound like the typical Seattle name.
  2. Names are significant in Moby-Dick, such as Ishmael and Ahab, providing layers of meaning and context, like Quakerism's origins on Nantucket from the Starbuck family.
  3. Melville's choice of naming a character Starbuck in Moby-Dick, among other notable whaling families, could have been intentionally critical, potentially influenced by a contemporary author's success.

Wishing the Impossible

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 29 Nov 23
📚 Literature Greek mythology Character analysis Epic poetry Comparison
  1. Hektor in the Iliad is a complex character who leads the Trojan war effort but faces challenges and limitations in his portrayal.
  2. Readers connect with Hektor as a noble character in the epic, showing deep emotional responses towards him.
  3. Hektor's speeches reveal his eagerness for battle, his wish for immortality, and his unique approach to rallying his people, showcasing his internal conflicts.

Structure and Stories

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 19 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
📚 Literature Themes Narrative structure Character analysis Mythology Interpretation
  1. Book 6 of the Iliad is carefully structured and dynamic, offering a rare view into the city of Troy and the voices of its women, crucial for understanding the epic's world.
  2. The interlocking themes and structures in Book 6 effectively anticipate future events, like Glaukos and Diomedes' exchange foreshadowing later narratives and interactions.
  3. The detailed 'obituaries' of named characters in Book 6, especially the Trojan dead, not only magnify the accomplishments of the heroes but also integrate local traditions into the Homeric narrative.

"Ethan Frome" (Edith Wharton)

Outsider Art • 19 implied HN points • 13 Nov 23
📚 Literature Novel Character analysis
  1. The village of Starkfield, isolated and suffocating in winter, plays a significant role in shaping the characters' fates.
  2. Zeena, with her apparent frailty, conceals a cunning mind and holds a significant power over Ethan and their relationships.
  3. Ethan's dreams and desires are ultimately crushed by the tragedies and constraints of fate, leaving him resigned to a life of quiet despair.

Succession: Shiv Misunderstood

Kvetch • 55 implied HN points • 04 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture TV shows Gender Roles Generational Dynamics Character analysis Social Commentary
  1. Shiv from Succession is often misunderstood by fans who compare her to characters like Skyler White.
  2. The show Succession doesn't portray its flawed protagonists as entirely dislikeable, instead revering them in their complexities.
  3. The series explores themes of power, succession, and generational dynamics through the lens of dysfunctional relationships and characters' sexual expressions.

"Silas Marner" (George Eliot)

Outsider Art • 19 implied HN points • 16 Oct 23
📚 Literature Classic literature Character analysis Themes Redemption Victorian Era
  1. Silas Marner, the main character, faces hardships and misjudgment due to his outsider status in the village of Raveloe.
  2. Acts of kindness, like Silas helping a sick woman and later adopting a young girl, showcase the theme of unexpected treasures in life.
  3. The novel reflects a world where virtue is ultimately rewarded, but also explores the complexities of redemption and the passage of time.

myths and truth

Midnight Musings • 39 implied HN points • 31 Oct 22
📚 Literature Mythology Storytelling Character analysis Philosophy Narrative
  1. Myths and stories help us understand our own experiences better. They give us examples to relate to and can change how we see our challenges.
  2. Greatness often comes with challenges and vulnerabilities. Even heroes like Balder and Achilles had their downfalls because of their unique flaws or circumstances.
  3. The way we interpret our achievements matters. Like the dog who wanted to be a dragon, our view of success can affect our happiness. It's important to find value in our unique journey.

Why we love stories about messy rich people

quite useless • 2 HN points • 20 Apr 23
📚 Literature Character analysis
  1. Readers have conflicting views on novels about wealthy characters, some loving the genre while others express dislike.
  2. The structure of 'messy rich people' narratives often revolves around characters having many choices, making decisions in the face of numerous possibilities.
  3. Literary preferences for choice plots (characters making things happen) versus no-choice plots (things happening to characters) can correlate with aestheticism versus moralism in storytelling.

Contemplating New York: In a City With Everything, What Do You Want?

Arjun’s Newsletter • 1 HN point • 22 Sep 23
📚 Literature Book review City life Character analysis Themes Narrative style
  1. Moving to New York can be overwhelming with temptations and responsibilities, especially for young adults.
  2. The novel 'Bright Lights, Big City' captures the essence of New York City through the protagonist's struggles and temptations.
  3. The book highlights the conflict between who the protagonist wants to be and who he really is, showcasing the allure, challenges, and self-discovery in the city.

Stories with three characters

do clouds feel vertigo? • 0 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
📚 Literature Fiction Storytelling Character analysis Themes Narrative structure
  1. Stories with three characters often have a dynamic structure. They allow for different interactions and conflicts.
  2. The concept of three can be found in various cultural references, like the Greek Fates or the division of regions in France.
  3. In mathematics, three basic components, like an origin and two signs, can represent crucial ideas. This highlights the simplicity and versatility of the number three.

Pale Anna

Apposition • 0 implied HN points • 11 Mar 23
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Author analysis Character analysis
  1. The story 'Pale Anna' by Heinrich Böll follows a narrator struggling with post-war trauma and isolation.
  2. The narrator's encounters with 'Pale Anna' and his past relationships reveal a theme of psychological wounds and missed connections.
  3. The ambiguous ending and unresolved questions in the story suggest deeper layers of trauma and meaning left unexplored.