Adding Complex Morality to Whumper/Villains
Complex morality can be really difficult to conjure, because as humans we can’t help but hold bias to morals. Some of us struggle more to make a heroic figure on truly good/lawful terms. Some of us struggle with the exact opposite like me. Here are some things that easily add complexity to moral situations for sadistic, evil, and/or villainous characters.
Character is a loving family member/parent figure for their double-sided life
Character’s actions are starting to wear morally on them, but their ego is still too high to do something to make change
Another character has forced the character into this path (remember this rarely ever reforms or excuses character’s actions)
Character’s actions are a retaliation of mistreatment or oppression in the past
Despite all of their actions, they are a loving compassionate kind partner to someone else
They genuinely believe their actions are for the greater good
People around character see them as an amazing figure
Character was raised to be the way they are
Character is actively working a strong overbearing force that they cannot easily get out of (governments, militaries, organizes, spyforce)
Insecurities pushed Character
Character is being mind controlled or possesses
Some of Character’s morals are on the greater spectrums (isn’t a bigot, won’t harm children, strong advocate for equal rights)
Character helps other characters previously or for temporary moments
Character is beginning to second guess their actions
Character is on the verge of realizing how horrible they are
Certain people are let go or spared by character for unknown reasons
