Round character

A round character i n literature is one who has been fully developed (think three dimensional versus two-dimensional). They take on realistic identities and encompass complex characteristics. A flat character, on the other hand, is one who has not been fully developed. He or she does not represent a fully realistic character, although physical characteristics might be explained. Dynamic vs. Static characters are often paired with the above two. Dynamic characters are those who change and develop during the unfolding of the story. They learn something, undergo something, or make changes that represents their internal struggles and overcoming them. A static character then, (which is usually represented by your flat character) does not undergo changes and remains the same, despite perhaps, having undergone some event. The protagonist is your main character of the story (which is usually round). The antagonist of the story is the opposition, set against the protagonist, which usually helps change the protagonist into a dynamic character. So here's a recap (this is generally how it goes, but is not always set in stone): Round - Dynamic - Protagonist. A round character is a term coined by E.M. Forster and is the direct opposite of a flat character. A round character is extremely realistic, behaving and speaking in a "real life" manner. The character is complex and increases in complexity throughout the story. A round character is capable of contradiction and change with evidence of emotional and psychological development.

Flat character
A flat character is a minor character in a work of fiction who does not undergo substantial change or growth in the course of a story. Also referred to as "two-dimensional characters" or "static characters," flat characters play a supporting role to the main character, who as a rule should be round. Though we don't generally strive to write flat characters, they are often necessary in a story, along with round characters. Take, for example, Mr. Collins in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. A flat character, he serves a vital role in the story of how Elizabeth and Darcy get together, and he provides comedy, but his character stays essentially unchanged. (In fact, thats part of what makes him funny.)