Character Development Question #84: Humor
How would you describe the character’s sense of humor?
What type of humor fits your character’s personality? Does slapstick comedy appeal to their baser sensibilities? Do they prefer an old-fashioned potty joke? Or do they desire the self-deprecating humor of a stereotypical social media account? Yes, I’m looking at you. And me. And everyone else on the internet.
What person (or form of media, entertainment, etc.) does the character deem the funniest of them all? What about this person or act brings the person such inexplicable joy? Were they raised watching this show from a young age, and thus experience the heightened sense of nostalgia when watching as an adult? Does the other character know how to make this character laugh and actively tries to do so? Or does this character simply think another person has a comical appearance, and thus busts into hysterics every time they approach them?
On the other hand, whose humor falls flat no matter what they attempt? Does the other character continue attempting to make this character laugh, or do they give up on any and every attempt to make them crack a smile? Why does this character not find the other’s form of humor entertaining? Do they dislike their crudeness or vulgarity? Or do they believe the other is not crude or vulgar enough? Does their first impression of the person affect their enjoyment of their comedy style?
From what place does the character laugh? It is a full-body belly laugh? A girlish giggle? An admittedly ugly snort? What parts of their body light up, move, make noise, twitch, etc.? Do they try to control their laughter (in front of everyone or only in front of certain people) or do they freely let loose regardless of their audience? Do they clutch their stomach, bend over, wipe away the tears, or simply sneer?
