Character Psych Template — Part 1

Next

Introduction

I have long been seeking for a systematic procedure of creating multidimensional characters for my stories.

The search is over.  I decided on constructing a character template following guidelines from The Study of Human Abilities, translated by Dr. J. K. Shryock from Liu Shao's Jen wu chih.  As soon as the template is complete, I will begin using it to create characters for a new story.

The Five Virtues

The five categories of things are all exhibited in our bodies.

The differentiation of the five constants is arranged in order as the five virtues.

1. Wood 木/Bone 骨/Manliness 仁:  strong-willed; bones are firm yet pliable; gentle yet upright, and docile yet strong.
2. Metal 金/Muscles 筋/Performance of Duty 義:  courageous; muscles are strong and spirited; unyielding yet having a terminal, liberal yet decisive.
3. Water 水/Blood 血/Wisdom 智:  an apprehender of subtilties; appearance is calm, yet potentially energetic; honest yet courteous, reasonable yet ritually correct.
4. Earth 土/Flesh 肌/Fidelity 信:  virtuously firm; body is erect, dignified, and invigorated; gentle yet dignified, soft yet withstanding.
5. Fire 火/Breath 氣/Correct Behavior 禮:  cultured; breath is clear and transparent; simple yet luxuriant, illuminating externals yet piercing the depths.

The Nine Manifestations

That whereby the nature may be understood is the manifestation of the nine substances.

1. Balanced or unbalanced:  the soul 神.
2. Clear or obscure:  the essence 精.
3. Bravery or cowardice:  the muscles 筋.
4. Firmness or precariousness:  the bones 骨.
5. Impetuosity or calm:  the temperament 氣.
6. Melancholy and cheerfulnes:  the countenance 色.
7. Decay or good condition:  the bearing 儀.
8. Hypocrisy or correctness:  the manner 容.
9. Slowness or rapidity:  the speech 言.

Next