Character and Conflict

WRITING X 462.3

Learn how richly drawn characters are the key to fostering compelling conflict in this reading- and exercise-based workshop.

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What you can learn.

Develop unique and interesting characters whose traits trigger conflict in your work
Explore how successful writers craft characters by studying published works
Build rich inner and outer lives that make your characters realistic and relatable
Learn how conflict in your work is intrinsically linked to who your characters are

About this course:

One of the most misunderstood concepts in the craft of fiction writing is the relationship between character and conflict. A story can involve a complex character with fascinating thoughts, ideas and interests, but without a conflict that motivates the character to act, the ensuing story will be stagnant and flat. In this class, we explore, through our own writing and through published work, how to create richly imagined characters and how to challenge them with conflicts that threaten their hidden, most deeply held desires, forcing them to act in ways that change the world around them. Each week, we read sample fiction to identify craft tools that help us determine and convey the flaws in our characters, flaws that then help us pick a conflicted situation to push our characters into action. Weekly writing exercises put theory into practice and help you discover what works (and doesn't) in your own writing practice.

Spring 2024 Schedule

April 9 - June 11

Tuesday 7:00PM - 10:00PM PT

Enrollment Closed

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Instructor: Aatif Rashid

396533

Fee:

$720.00

In Person

Location: UCLA

Updating...

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Notes

Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required.

This course meets in person at the designated class meeting time and location. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation. Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.

Refund Deadline

No refunds after April 23, 2024

Course Requirements

Internet access required to retrieve course materials.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PUBLIC SYLLABUS FOR THIS COURSE.

Schedule

Type

Date

Time

Location

Discussion

Tue Apr 9, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue Apr 16, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue Apr 23, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue Apr 30, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue May 7, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue May 14, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue May 21, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue May 28, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue Jun 4, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Discussion

Tue Jun 11, 2024

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT

UCLA
Rolfe Hall 3108

Summer 2024 Schedule

July 3 - September 10

This section has no set meeting times.

Future Offering (Opens April 29, 2024 12:00:00 AM)

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Instructor: Ross Showalter

398119

Fee:

$720.00

Online

Updating...

See Details

Notes

Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required.

This online course is conducted through Canvas, a secure website that allows students to log in to access lectures, discussions, and other course materials on demand. There are no required class meetings. Each course is structured with weekly assignments and deadlines. Lectures and coursework are accessible throughout the week. Workshops are conducted in writing via discussion boards with your instructor and classmates.

Refund Deadline

No refunds after July 17, 2024

Course Requirements

Internet access required to retrieve course materials.