Newbie question about Players and Functions

[waspy]

Hi,

I'm currently working through a short story using Dramtica for the first time. I have a small cast -- five characters. What I'm trying to understand is whether one or more of my characters can do 'double duty' in terms of their functions without seeming like they have serious personality issues.

I've read the Dramtica Theory Book and noted that it says a Player can be assigned more than one function, but it gives the example of Jekyll and Hyde.

What I'm looking to do is combine Functions that seem naturally compatible, not produce a sign of a serious character flaws or disorder. In my story, I have a character who is both the Guardian and Reason character...he is the protagonist's helper/conscience, and he does this using Reason. Is this approach workable for generally well-balanced characters?

[Mwoll]

The Jekell/Hyde example is specifically for functions that are directly opposing each other. Those can never be in the same player (character) at the same time.

There is an analysis of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" with Dramatica -- that's only 4 characters. The Dramatica Book also talks about a movie (can't remember which ) that has 5 characters.

It's possible.

[Chris Huntley]

Yes, combine at will. I recommend against putting two halves of a dynamic pair in the same character. The audience will perceive it as two characters, whether you like it or not.

[waspy]

Many thanks to you both for your answers--very helpful.

Having searched more thoroughly (and through the tips of the month), I see this has been asked before...so apologies for the repetition.

[Chris Huntley]

Never a problem to ask questions.