There are times when characters must be tested beyond all comprehension. Since we have the same thing happen during our own lives, it makes the characters very sympathetic. Experiencing someone else going through severe challenges provides a merging point, a place we share and comprehend. We have empathy toward someone not us, and that empathy drives us closer to the characters. Naturally, this works in the rest of life as well, because this is one of the ways we get to know and understand someone else. It's important to share experiences.
It seems to me that the biggest worry about big and difficult trials is about how these things change us. How can we be sure this won't bend us into something terrifying? As an audience, when a character is faced with such a test we are on pins and needles because we can't forecast the results (or, we shouldn't be able to if the author is doing their job). It's both exciting and scary. Story is about tension, and this is a great one.
Probably the hardest trials are the ones our closest friends and family face. It's only natural that we want to shield such close connections, yet nobody can take the test for anyone else. Still, we can be there for them. Drama does this a lot, as it draws from true life. Funny, but it's hard to write only about characters facing trials, without making it about people I know myself. More than likely, we have people in our lives right now who are facing very difficult circumstance and are settling on very touch choices. Watching that is grueling. But, the hopeful goal is to be better after it all washes over. We can encourage as we watch--tough to do in a crowded theater without being shouted down though.
- M
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