Character Trait: Brutish

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait "Brutish" refers to someone who is savage, cruel, or lacking in intelligence and refinement. It suggests a person who is uncivilized and prone to violent or aggressive behavior. When a character is described as brutish, it often implies a lack of empathy or emotional intelligence, and a tendency to resort to physical force to get what they want. In some cases, a brutish character may be portrayed as a formidable antagonist, while in others, they may be depicted as a sympathetic figure struggling with their own shortcomings.

Possible causes of being brutish

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

• Substance abuse: drug or alcohol abuse can lead to impulsivity, aggression, and other brutish behaviors.
• Traumatic experiences: experiencing or witnessing traumatic events can lead to a brutish personality as a coping mechanism.
• Cultural norms: in some cultures, brutish behavior may be seen as acceptable or even encouraged.
• Social factors: peer pressure, bullying, or feeling like an outsider may contribute to someone developing a brutish personality.
• Mental health issues: some mental health conditions, such as antisocial personality disorder or borderline personality disorder, may cause someone to display brutish behavior.
• Upbringing: an individual's upbringing, especially if they were exposed to violent or abusive behavior, may contribute to a brutish personality.

It's important to note that having a brutish personality is not an excuse for harmful behavior, and individuals should seek help if they struggle with controlling their aggressive tendencies.

For detailed feedback on brutish characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's narrative evaluation tool.

Behaviors associated with being brutish

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

• Displaying a lack of empathy or consideration for others
• Resorting to violence or intimidation to get what you want
• Engaging in reckless or impulsive behavior
• Refusing to compromise or negotiate
• Behaving in a rude or obnoxious manner
• Being confrontational or argumentative
• Using physical force to solve problems
• Speaking loudly and aggressively
• Ignoring social norms or etiquette

Attitudes associated with being brutish

You may be able to show brutish through their attitudes.

• Impulsivity
• Lack of empathy
• Self-centeredness
• Insensitivity
• Aggressiveness
• Arrogance
• Contempt for rules or authority
• Intolerance towards weakness or vulnerability
• Disregard for consequences or others' feelings

Thoughts and struggles associated with being brutish

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

• They may feel isolated or misunderstood because their behavior is seen as unacceptable by others
• They may have a desire for power and control over others
• They may have a tendency to solve problems with violence rather than diplomacy
• They may have a deep fear of vulnerability or weakness, which drives them to act tough and dominant
• They may feel a sense of superiority or entitlement due to their physical strength or ability to intimidate others
• A brutish character may struggle with controlling their anger or aggression
• They may struggle with empathy and understanding the perspectives of others

Emotions associated with being brutish

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

• Hostility
• Intimidation
• Arrogance
• Lack of empathy
• Cruelty
• Impulsiveness
• Aggressiveness
• Rudeness
• Insensitivity

Facial expressions associated with being brutish

Here are some facial expressions your brutish character may exhibit.

• Heavy or exaggerated breathing
• Red face or flushed cheeks
• Squinted or narrowed eyes
• Flared nostrils
• Furrowed brow
• Sneer or curled upper lip
• Raised eyebrows in a mocking or confrontational manner
• Clenched jaw or teeth grinding

Body language associated with being brutish

Here is some body language your brutish character may exhibit.

• Using coarse language or swearing frequently
• Using physical intimidation (e.g. pushing, shoving, grabbing)
• Speaking loudly and forcefully
• Scowling or sneering
• Interrupting or talking over others
• Invading personal space
• Pointing aggressively
• Standing with a wide stance and puffed-up chest
• Clenching fists and jaw

For detailed feedback on brutish characters and other aspects of your writing, try ProWritingAid's narrative evaluation tool.

Behaviors associated with being brutish

Here are some behaviors your brutish character may exhibit.

• Being confrontational or argumentative
• Using physical force to solve problems
• Displaying a lack of empathy or consideration for others
• Refusing to compromise or negotiate
• Ignoring social norms or etiquette
• Speaking loudly and aggressively
• Behaving in a rude or obnoxious manner
• Resorting to violence or intimidation to get what you want
• Engaging in reckless or impulsive behavior

Growth and evolution of brutish characters

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

• Gaining self-awareness: The brutish character may start to recognize their own flaws and limitations, allowing them to grow and change to become a better person.
• Building relationships: The brutish character may start to form meaningful connections with other characters, allowing them to see the value in working together and being a team player.
• Discovering a new passion: The brutish character may find a new interest or hobby that channels their aggression into a more positive outlet, allowing them to express themselves in a healthier way.
• Developing empathy: The brutish character may start to understand and relate to other characters' feelings and perspectives, allowing them to become more compassionate and less aggressive.
• Learning self-control: The brutish character may start to control their impulses and reactions, allowing them to handle situations with more patience and thoughtfulness.

Stereotypes of brutish characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical brutish character like these examples.

• Avoid making the character abusive or violent towards women or marginalized groups.
• Avoid making the character one-dimensional and solely focused on physical strength or aggression.
• Avoid making the character insensitive or cruel towards others without any justification or motivation.
• Avoid using language or actions that perpetuate harmful stereotypes about masculinity or violence.
• Avoid portraying the character as unintelligent or lacking emotional depth.

Negatives of being brutish

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

• Disregarding rules and laws, leading to legal issues
• Difficulty collaborating with others in group settings
• Being confrontational and argumentative in situations that could be resolved peacefully
• Being overly aggressive or violent in interactions with others
• Being quick-tempered and easily provoked
• Strained relationships with others due to a lack of respect and understanding
• Using physical force or intimidation tactics to get what one wants
• Showing little to no concern for the feelings or well-being of others
• Lack of empathy towards others, including friends and family

Positives of being brutish

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

• They can be fiercely loyal to their friends and allies, willing to do whatever it takes to protect and defend them.
• They can be very decisive, making quick decisions and taking action without hesitation.
• Brutish characters can be very passionate and intense, which can make them exciting and engaging to be around.
• Brutish characters are often seen as fearless, willing to take on any challenge or danger.
• Brutish characters are often physically strong and imposing, which can make them intimidating to others.
• They tend to be direct and straightforward in their communication, which can be refreshing in a world of passive-aggressive behavior.
• Brutish characters often have a strong sense of justice and fairness, and will fight for what they believe is right.

Verbal expressions of brutish characters

Here are some potential expressions used by brutish characters.

• Displaying a lack of empathy or consideration for others
• Ignoring social norms and etiquette
• Using physical threats or violence to intimidate
• Being blunt and tactless in communication
• Speaking loudly and interrupting others
• Insulting and belittling others
• Swearing and cursing frequently
• Aggressive and confrontational language
• Boasting or bragging about one's own accomplishments or abilities

Relationships of brutish characters

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

• They may be quick to anger or become easily frustrated.
• They may have a tendency to lash out or become violent when they don't get their way.
• They may view kindness or compassion as a weakness and instead prioritize strength and power.
• They may lack empathy and disregard the feelings of others.
• They may use physical force or aggression to assert their dominance.
• They may struggle to form close relationships, as their brutish behavior may push others away.
• They may intimidate and bully others to get what they want.
• They may struggle with communication, resorting to grunts, shouts, or other aggressive gestures instead of using words to express themselves.

It's important to note that these are generalizations and not all brutish people will exhibit all of these traits. Additionally, it's possible for characters to exhibit brutish behavior while still having redeeming qualities or undergoing character development throughout the story.

Examples from books of characters who are brutish

• Lennie from "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck
• Bill Sikes from "Oliver Twist" by Charles Dickens
• Caliban from "The Tempest" by William Shakespeare
• Jack Merridew from "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding
• Javert from "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo
• Captain Ahab from "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville
• Frankenstein's monster from "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley
• The Beast from "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding
• Heathcliff from "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte

Writing exercises for writing brutish characters

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

• Write a scene where your character is in a confrontation with someone. How do they react? Do they resort to physical violence or do they find a way to resolve the conflict without resorting to force?
• Think about the physical appearance of your character. Does their appearance suggest strength or aggression? Does their body language convey dominance or intimidation?
• Write a backstory for your character that explains why they have developed the brutish traits they display. Were they raised in a violent environment? Have they experienced trauma that has affected their behavior?
• Imagine your character in a situation where they have to work with someone they don't like or agree with. How do they handle the situation? Do they try to dominate or bully the other person, or do they find a way to work together?
• Explore your character's actions. Do they resort to violence to solve their problems? Do they act impulsively or without considering the consequences of their actions?
• Consider your character's speaking style. Do they use coarse language or speak in a gruff tone? Do they interrupt or talk over others?