Short Answer 
To analyze a character’s development, evaluate their initial actions, reactions to plot events, and behaviors at the end of the story. This includes assessing their decisions, relationships, and how they handle conflicts throughout the narrative to determine their growth.
Step 1: Analyze Beginning Actions
Start by examining the character’s actions at the beginning of the story. This initial portrayal sets the stage for understanding their personality and motivations. Look for significant behaviors that reveal their traits, such as:
- Decisions they make that indicate their values.
- Relationships with other characters that demonstrate their social standing.
- Initial conflicts or challenges that hint at their growth potential.
Step 2: Observe Reactions to Plot Events
Next, focus on how the character responds to various plot events throughout the story. Their reactions can showcase their internal evolution and highlight key moments of change. Pay attention to the following aspects:
- How they handle obstacles and challenges.
- The impact of other characters’ actions on their responses.
- Decisions they make that influence the story’s direction.
Step 3: Examine End Behavior
Finally, assess the character’s behavior at the end of the story. This is crucial in determining whether credible character development has occurred. Key elements to evaluate include:
- Changes in their attitudes or beliefs based on experiences.
- How their relationships have evolved or transformed.
- The resolution of their initial conflicts and how they handle outcomes.