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Rants >> Rant 8

:: Today's soundtrack: David Bowie "Something in the Air" ::


Whenever you write a story with characters, you have to name them. It's inevitable really. Some writers choose to be clever and give their characters meaningful names, like in the film Heathers where the lead Veronica Sawyer was best friends with Betty Finn (you see what he did there?). Other writers aren't quite so smart with the naming, especially when it comes to villains.

For instance.....

If your name is Cain/Kane you must be evil.

Also, naming someone "Gargamel" makes them evil.

If there is a syllable "or", which is emphasized and usually the second syllable, you're the bad guy (i.e. Lex Luthor, Prince Lotor).

Unless you're Zorro, having a name starting with "Z" ensures a life of ne'er do well (King Zarkon, Zorin, Zartan).

Do the words "doom" or "death" appear within 1 mile of the character? (i.e. Sauron lives on Mount Doom, the classic Victor Von Doom , Deathstro, the Death Eaters)

There are no villains named "Gary".

However, if the character is portrayed by Gary Oldman, it is most likely the villain. (this applies to Christopher Lee, too)

Making someone a Doctor is sorta middle territory, but leans slightly towards villainy and mad scientists (Dr. Octopus, Dr. Mindbender, Dr. Claw).

If they are a Baron or a Count, guess what, evil. (Count Dracula, Baron Von Struker, Baron Zemo, Count Nefaria, Count Chocula). (for some reason Dukes are good)

Keep in mind that these aren't necessarily the "rules" for naming a villain just what people have made into the cliches. In fact, when naming your next villain, try to steer clear of these instances and you could be onto something unexpected and revolutionary.

William (evil genius)

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