Post by Deleted on Jul 26, 2014 12:52:29 GMT -5
Let's face it, the cocky male is everywhere (I have one myself!). While a male will be particularly known by this one trait (if he has it), that doesn't mean they can all be played the same way. Here I'll show you ideas on how to write a cocky male character, thinking outside the box about him, and a few examples.
Often times, I think the cocky male is created because it's a trope. There's always a handsome jerk that you can't help but adore- whether you love to hate him, acknowledge that he's simply got a huge ego, or hopelessly believe there's some good hidden inside. Cocky characters are arrogant, think themselves superior, and are overbearing about it. This is perhaps the base idea behind the cocky male, but as a writer, you can put so much more depth into him! Our characters are not cookie cutters that can be made in endless production, they are creations of our imagination brought to life by our words. So naturally, let's take a look at some well-known examples of the cocky male:
Captain Jack Sparrow
SO MANY Game of Thrones Characters
Tony Stark/Iron Man
Naturally, this list could go on and on. The thing is, all of these characters have a reason to think highly of themselves and be cocky because of it. I think it's helpful to look at popular characters for some inspiration, while keeping in mind that they are still your original character (yes, even canons apply to this statement... somewhat. We are AU, creativity is a given, but it still must be believable). Why is he cocky? Is he cocky because of his grades or athletic ability? Is it his wealth or established career? Was he an only child, or exceptionally spoiled as one? Is it a front to cover up his own insecurities? A characters history is incredibly important to think about, as it will heavily influence his personality. There is a thin line between love and hate... your character interactions should leave people mucking about around that line.
Further Ideas:
-The cocky male is usually quick-witted. Even if he isn't build large enough to take on physical fights, he will probably end up in verbal banters about superiority, trying to make others feel stupid, insecure, and simply inferior.
-He is probably a flirt. His arrogance will lead him to believe he can attain just about anything, including other people. He will talk himself up in order to seem desirable- whether or not he's miffed about any sort of rejection is up to you.
-He will often (but not always!) have a strong lean towards vanity. He might love working out or playing sports. Perhaps he takes long showers or is particular about the way he does his hair, or his facial hair (perhaps lack of it?).
This is, of course, only a small place to start. Feel free to add any additional thoughts or questions on this post!
Often times, I think the cocky male is created because it's a trope. There's always a handsome jerk that you can't help but adore- whether you love to hate him, acknowledge that he's simply got a huge ego, or hopelessly believe there's some good hidden inside. Cocky characters are arrogant, think themselves superior, and are overbearing about it. This is perhaps the base idea behind the cocky male, but as a writer, you can put so much more depth into him! Our characters are not cookie cutters that can be made in endless production, they are creations of our imagination brought to life by our words. So naturally, let's take a look at some well-known examples of the cocky male:
Captain Jack Sparrow
- He's always correcting people to use the right title of Captain... even if no one else believes it. He uses deception and manipulation in order to get what he wants. He looks out for himself and his own interests, which often gets him a slap in the face.
SO MANY Game of Thrones Characters
- I won't go into spoilers, but this show is full of them. Jaime Lannister is the Kingslayer, member of the King's Guard, and total heartthrob to all the ladies. Oberyn Martell is known as the Red Viper, and thinks he's sly enough to seek vengeance. Basically, any male wanting the throne is totally cocky and viscous.
Tony Stark/Iron Man
- A rich playboy, his money and status give him the rights to be a cocky jerk most of the time (or at least, he thinks so). Throw in his awesome suit and now he also has the right to be called a super hero. Wealth, good looks, and saving the world all do wonders to a man's ego
Naturally, this list could go on and on. The thing is, all of these characters have a reason to think highly of themselves and be cocky because of it. I think it's helpful to look at popular characters for some inspiration, while keeping in mind that they are still your original character (yes, even canons apply to this statement... somewhat. We are AU, creativity is a given, but it still must be believable). Why is he cocky? Is he cocky because of his grades or athletic ability? Is it his wealth or established career? Was he an only child, or exceptionally spoiled as one? Is it a front to cover up his own insecurities? A characters history is incredibly important to think about, as it will heavily influence his personality. There is a thin line between love and hate... your character interactions should leave people mucking about around that line.
Further Ideas:
-The cocky male is usually quick-witted. Even if he isn't build large enough to take on physical fights, he will probably end up in verbal banters about superiority, trying to make others feel stupid, insecure, and simply inferior.
-He is probably a flirt. His arrogance will lead him to believe he can attain just about anything, including other people. He will talk himself up in order to seem desirable- whether or not he's miffed about any sort of rejection is up to you.
-He will often (but not always!) have a strong lean towards vanity. He might love working out or playing sports. Perhaps he takes long showers or is particular about the way he does his hair, or his facial hair (perhaps lack of it?).
This is, of course, only a small place to start. Feel free to add any additional thoughts or questions on this post!
