What is a defining characteristic of a round character in literature?

A defining characteristic of a round character is that they are complex and undergo development throughout the narrative. Round characters are often portrayed with depth, showcasing a range of emotions, motivations, and traits that make them feel realistic and relatable to readers. They are typically involved in significant events within the story, which leads to their growth or transformation. This development can manifest through challenges they face, internal conflicts they resolve, or changes in their beliefs and relationships, allowing them to evolve in response to the plot.

In contrast, characters that remain unchanged represent flat characters, and those with a single, simple trait could be categorized as stereotypical or flat as well. Additionally, characters who exclusively support the protagonist usually do not possess the complexity or depth that round characters have, as they are often designed to serve a particular narrative purpose rather than develop fully as individuals. Therefore, the complexity and potential for development are what set round characters apart in literature.