Literary lens

How to Create Likable Yet Complex Characters

A character doesn't have to be perfect to be likable. In fact, flaws, contradictions, and hidden depths make them more compelling. Snotlout (Race to the Edge) and Mr. Darcy (Pride and Prejudice) are great examples of this—both start off as frustrating, even unlikable, but by the end, you understand them and maybe even root for them. So, how do you write a character like that?

1. Give Them Flaws—But Make Them Human

Perfect characters are boring. Give your character a mix of strengths and weaknesses that make sense for who they are.

Snotlout: Overconfident, arrogant, and insecure underneath. He tries too hard to prove himself, which often makes him annoying, but his need for validation makes him relatable.
Darcy: Socially awkward, proud, and blunt. He’s rich and well-mannered, but he struggles with emotional expression, making him come off as rude.

The key is balance. Their flaws cause problems, but they aren’t just their flaws—they also have redeeming moments.

2. Make Them Change (But Not Too Fast)

A good complex character doesn’t stay the same. They evolve based on experiences, but they don’t flip personalities overnight.

Snotlout: He starts as selfish and reckless, but over time, he proves his loyalty. He still brags, still acts like a fool sometimes—but when it really counts, he shows he cares.
Darcy: He learns to check his pride, but he doesn’t suddenly become an open book. He improves in ways that feel natural, showing his kindness through actions rather than words.

A forced redemption arc isn’t satisfying. Let them grow just enough that we see progress, but keep their personality intact.

3. Make Their Strengths & Weaknesses Two Sides of the Same Coin

Every strength should come with a downside, and every flaw should have a hidden advantage.

Snotlout: His arrogance makes him obnoxious, but it also makes him fearless in battle. He acts tough, but deep down, he’s incredibly loyal.
Darcy: His pride makes him cold, but it also makes him deeply honorable. He refuses to fake kindness for social approval, which is frustrating but shows he values honesty.

This makes the character feel real. No one is good at everything, and no one is bad at everything either.

4. Show Their Hidden Soft Side (At the Right Moment)

The moment a complex character becomes likable is usually when we see their true self slip through—when they stop performing and just are.

Snotlout: Acts tough, but cares deeply about his dragon, Hookfang. He jokes around, but when his dragon is in danger, he’s terrified.
Darcy: Cold and formal, but secretly goes out of his way to help people he loves. He doesn’t just talk about love—he shows it through actions, like saving Lydia’s reputation.

A character doesn’t need to be constantly sweet to be likable. They just need moments where we see their heart.

5. Let Other Characters React to Them

Complex characters shine when they bounce off different personalities. Their interactions with others can highlight their contradictions.

Snotlout: Annoys Hiccup, but respects him deep down. Competes with Fishlegs but protects him when it matters.
Darcy: Clashes with Elizabeth because she challenges him. Has a good friendship with Bingley, which shows he can be warm with the right people.

Seeing how others respond to them helps us understand them better. It also gives them room to change naturally.

Final Thoughts

Characters like Snotlout and Darcy are frustrating and endearing. They make mistakes, they push people away, and yet, by the end, you can’t help but like them. The key to making a complex character likable is to balance flaws with depth, strengths with weaknesses, and show their growth slowly and naturally.