Character Trait: Brave

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. Bravery is the quality of being courageous and fearless. It is the ability to face danger, difficulty, or pain without showing fear. Brave characters are those who are willing to take risks, stand up for what they believe in, and confront their fears head-on. They may be physically strong, mentally resilient, or emotionally confident, but what sets them apart is their willingness to act despite the fear or uncertainty they may feel.

Possible causes of being brave

You might want to weave these into your character's back story to build a more believable character.

• Self-confidence and self-efficacy: Individuals who believe in their ability to handle difficult situations and have a sense of control over their lives may be more likely to take risks and act bravely.
• Life experiences: A person's upbringing, exposure to danger or adversity, or witnessing acts of bravery from others can shape their personality and make them more likely to display bravery.
• Genetics and biology: Some people may be naturally predisposed to bravery due to their genetic makeup or brain chemistry.
• Values and beliefs: People who hold certain values such as courage, justice, or honor may be more likely to act bravely in certain situations.

For detailed feedback on brave characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's character arc evaluator.

Behaviors associated with being brave

You may be able to show your character's trait of brave by using these.

• Admitting mistakes and taking responsibility for them
• Doing what is right, even if it's difficult or unpopular
• Standing up for oneself and others in the face of adversity
• Taking risks despite fear of failure or harm
• Speaking up for what one believes in, even if it's unpopular
• Persisting in the face of obstacles or opposition
• Protecting others from harm, even at personal cost
• Being willing to try new things and explore new ideas
• Facing challenges head-on instead of avoiding them

Attitudes associated with being brave

You may be able to show brave through their attitudes.

• Standing up for one's beliefs and values
• Preparedness to protect oneself or others
• Courage to take risks and try new things
• Willingness to face fear or danger
• Honesty and authenticity in expressing emotions and thoughts
• Open-mindedness to different perspectives and experiences
• Perseverance in the face of adversity
• Confidence in one's abilities and decisions

Thoughts and struggles associated with being brave

Here are some ideas for things your brave character may think or struggle with.

• They may have experienced past failures or traumatic events that have tested their courage, leading to a desire to prove themselves or overcome their fears.
• They may be willing to challenge authority or go against the norm if they believe it is necessary.
• They may have a strong moral compass and be guided by a sense of justice and fairness.
• A brave character may struggle with fear and uncertainty but chooses to act despite those feelings.
• They may face criticism or ridicule for their bravery, but remain steadfast in their convictions.
• They may struggle with self-doubt and worry about whether they are truly brave or if they are just fooling themselves.
• They may be willing to take risks and make sacrifices for the greater good, even if it means putting themselves in danger.
• They may have a strong sense of responsibility to protect others or stand up for what is right.

Emotions associated with being brave

Here are some ideas for emotions your brave character may experience.

• Heroism
• Fearlessness
• Courage
• Confidence
• Bravado
• Boldness
• Resilience
• Willpower
• Determination

Facial expressions associated with being brave

Here are some facial expressions your brave character may exhibit.

• A furrowed brow or intense eyes when facing a challenge
• A determined or confident smile
• A raised chin and a steady gaze
• A strong jawline and a firm set to the lips

Body language associated with being brave

Here is some body language your brave character may exhibit.

• Standing tall with shoulders back and chest out
• Maintaining a steady breathing pattern
• Taking risks and facing challenges without hesitation
• Having a relaxed yet alert posture
• Making direct eye contact
• Moving with purpose and confidence
• Speaking loudly and clearly
• Taking decisive actions
• Using assertive gestures, such as pointing or clenching fists

For detailed feedback on brave characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's character arc evaluator.

Behaviors associated with being brave

Here are some behaviors your brave character may exhibit.

• Admitting mistakes and taking responsibility for them
• Being willing to try new things and explore new ideas
• Standing up for oneself and others in the face of adversity
• Taking risks despite fear of failure or harm
• Facing challenges head-on instead of avoiding them
• Protecting others from harm, even at personal cost
• Doing what is right, even if it's difficult or unpopular
• Speaking up for what one believes in, even if it's unpopular
• Persisting in the face of obstacles or opposition

Growth and evolution of brave characters

Here are some ways that your brave character may grow and evolve over time.

• Overcoming fear and taking risks
• Developing a sense of responsibility and duty to protect others
• Developing resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges
• Learning to cope with failure and disappointment
• Gaining wisdom and experience from past bravery
• Standing up for oneself and others in the face of adversity
• Learning to balance bravery with caution and strategy
• Learning to trust oneself and others
• Learning to channel fear into motivation and courage

Stereotypes of brave characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical brave character like these examples.

• Fearlessness
• Overconfidence
• One-dimensional bravery (e.g. always charging into danger without thought)
• Bravery solely for personal gain or recognition
• Recklessness
• Being a lone wolf who doesn't work well with others
• Lack of vulnerability

Negatives of being brave

Here are some potential negatives of being brave. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as positives depending on the context.

• A brave person may overlook potential risks and consequences, leading to poor decision-making.
• Being too brave can lead to recklessness and putting oneself in unnecessary danger.
• Brave individuals may take on too much responsibility and burden themselves unnecessarily.
• Being brave can also lead to a lack of caution and foresight in certain situations.

Positives of being brave

Here are some potential positives of being brave. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as negatives depending on the context.

• Gaining respect and admiration from others
• Overcoming fears and obstacles
• Achieving goals and success
• Standing up for oneself and others
• Facing challenges with resilience and determination
• Taking risks and pursuing opportunities
• Inspiring others to be brave as well
• Building self-confidence and self-esteem

Verbal expressions of brave characters

Here are some potential expressions used by brave characters.

• "I'll protect those I care about"
• "I'm not afraid"
• "I'll handle it"
• "I'll stand up for what's right"
• "Bring it on"
• "I won't back down"
• "I'll take the risk"
• "I'll face my fears"
• "I'm ready for anything"

Relationships of brave characters

Here are some ways that being brave could affect your character's relationships.

• They may be perceived as strong and confident, which can attract others who seek guidance or protection.
• Brave individuals may have a tendency to take charge in difficult situations, which can sometimes create tension with those who prefer a more passive approach.
• Brave people may inspire and encourage others to face their fears.
• They may have a strong sense of justice and fairness, which can lead them to stand up for others who are being mistreated or oppressed.
• They may be seen as risk-takers, which can be exciting and exhilarating to some, but may also be perceived as reckless or dangerous to others.
• Brave people may be more likely to form deep and meaningful connections with others who share their values and beliefs.

Examples from books of characters who are brave

• Harry Potter from "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
• Tris Prior from "Divergent" series by Veronica Roth
• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III from "How to Train Your Dragon" by Cressida Cowell
• Katniss Everdeen from "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins
• Elizabeth Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Lyra Belacqua from "His Dark Materials" by Philip Pullman
• Frodo Baggins from "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
• Eowyn from "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien

Writing exercises for writing brave characters

Here are some writing exercises you might try for learning to write brave characters.

• Write a flashback that reveals a defining moment of bravery in your character's past
• Have your character face a fear and overcome it
• Have your character take a risk that goes against their better judgment
• Write a scene where your character must confront their own limitations and push through them
• Show your character making a sacrifice for the greater good
• Write a monologue from your character's perspective about what bravery means to them
• Write a scene where your character stands up to an authority figure or bully
• Show your character standing up for someone else who is being mistreated or oppressed