S7E7 - Plot Armor

Across all forms of story, you can find similarities and themes. Plots have recognizable structures, main characters almost always fight for good in some way, and there is usually a change in status quo. Sometimes, though, those themes transform into tropes, whether good or bad. Tropes are devices or elements used in story-telling that become recognizable through their consistent use. Like any other literary device, tropes are tools. They are not inherently bad, nor inherently good. We are taking this month to talk about some of the more common tropes, what they are, how they can be used correctly, and why you should be aware they exist.

It happens in so many books, movies, and especially television shows. The main characters are seemingly immortal. Nothing can kill them because they're the main character. If they do die, they are somehow brought back to life. This is a trope known as Plot Armor. While sometimes necessary, if taken to an extreme it can leave the reader uninterested and far from invested in the plight of your protagonist.

First aired February 25, 2020.

(We apologize for the delayed posting of this episode. The audio proof editor encountered some personal delays.)