Blog #3 Character Traits

In my novel Mockingjay, there isn't really a main protagonist because the conflict is against an entire group/force being the Capitol. Although the leader of the Capitol, President Snow, would be the only singular protagonist represented for the Capitol's side, so I'll try and choose four key character traits to represent him as a main protagonist.

The first key character trait I would give him is very intellegent. He seems to have a very strong grasp on the reality of his situation, for example at the beggining of the previous book Catching Fire he explains to Katniss about how delicate the Capitol is, and how something as small as this can cause uprisings and conflict. This book makes reference to that conversation. It also shows his cunning when he methodically places roses during certain times and in certain places to shatter Katniss's morale (As a sign that Snow still has control over her life and everything she does)

The second character trait I would give him is ruthless. He will stop at nothing to keep in control of everything involving both the Capitol and the 12 districts (13 districts now). It shows this when Finnick had made the propo about the secrets he had aquired over his years of being a sex slave for the Capitol after winning his Hunger Games. He makes reference to the competitors and threats to Snow's power being killed off or slowly disappearing from center stage. They make the connection in the book that Snow had been poisoning his competitors. He had drank out of the same cups with the poison in it so it wouldn't draw attention or suspicion, saying "But antidotes only go so far." Explaining the poison being the cause of the smell of blood on his breath, due to damage done to it.

The third would be both very influential and manipulative. He has the ability to really get into the heads of surrounding characters of all sorts to influence them or destroy them. I think his position of power has a little bit to do with this, but his personality is definatley the main source of this very useful tool in his arsenal of keeping power and control over the districts.

Despite him being the main protagonist, he doesn't have much appearance in the story, although he has a massive role. So I can't really pull out a fourth trait to give him, without fabricating it. Im sure nearing the end of the book, true colours will be shown and I would get a better sense of his thought process and personality.