Charismatic Characters

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about charismatic characters. They can be heroes or villains; sometimes they are both. Love him or hate him, President Trump is a prime example. What makes him irresistible to so many people? Like all charismatics he has an over-size personality, a willing audience, and a message.

Oversize Personality

Charismatic characters are larger than life with confidence levels off the charts. They model attributes desired by their followers, whether it’s wealth, power, or spirituality. Stung by their peers’ rejection, these individuals channel exuberant confidence to cultivate a space where they are revered. This space is occupied predominantly by politicians, religious and cult leaders.

Willing Audience

So, what kind of person is attracted to charismatic characters? People who have been excluded by society, those hoping to raise their social standing, and people who see themselves as victims of an unfair system. In short, people who don’t feel a part of something larger, people who hunger to Belong with a capital B. Think back to your high school days. Remember the “in” group that everyone aspired to join? What if someone showed you a way you too could have everything the popular kids had? Wouldn’t you jump at the chance?

Message

First and foremost, charismatic characters appeal to the need to belong. Belonging often requires putting yourself above, or in the case of women and people of color, on equal footing with others. This otherizing, or in the case of women and POC reverse-otherizing, creates a sense of empowerment which reinforces the gains in social status that the followers perceive. Thus, a movement is born.  

Writing Charismatic Characters

Does your story have a charismatic character? Whether that character is a major influence in your main characters life or the charismatic is the main character in your story, be sure to paint their oversize personality, their willing audience, and their explicit message.

P.T. Barnum, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Gandhi, Adolf Hitler, Joseph McCarthy, Martin Luther King, and Oprah Winfrey, are charismatic characters. Who would you add to this list and why? Post in the comments below.