From Writers Helping Writers:
DESCRIPTION : A female elder who rules over her family, tribe, or clan.
FICTIONAL EXAMPLES : Catelyn Stark ( A Song of Ice and Fire ), Lady Jessica ( Dune ), Mother Abagail ( The Stand ), Madea Simmons (the Madea franchise), Abuela Alma ( Encanto )
COMMON STRENGTHS : Adaptable, Ambitious, Analytical, Bold, Calm, Cautious, Confident, Decisive, Disciplined, Discreet, Focused, Inspirational, Just, Loyal, Nurturing, Organized, Persuasive, Protective, Resourceful, Responsible, Traditional, Wise
COMMON WEAKNESSES : Confrontational, Controlling, Cowardly, Fanatical, Humorless, Inflexible, Manipulative, Obsessive, Oversensitive, Paranoid, Perfectionist, Pushy
ASSOCIATED ACTIONS, BEHAVIORS, AND TENDENCIES Being a wise guide and counselor Teaching her family about moral standards Taking care of the needs of her family Knowing what she believes and standing firm on those ideals Making important decisions for her family Being able to make hard choices that are best for the group Not being afraid to take risks Clinging too tightly to her beliefs and not listening to other points of view Seeking to hold onto her power rather than consider changes that should be made Being unwilling to ask for help when she needs it
SITUATIONS THAT WILL CHALLENGE THEM A family conflict that makes it difficult for her to maintain objectivity A family member rejecting the matriarch’s vision or leadership and striking out on their own An external threat that must be overcome, such as an epidemic or war
TWIST THIS TROPE WITH A CHARACTER WHO… Is an authoritarian traditionalist instead of a wise and nurturing counselor Loves to meddle in the personal lives of her family and friends Is blind to deep personal flaws, such as being manipulative or closed-minded Has an atypical trait: Timid, Playful, Callous, Violent, Sleazy, Quirky, etc.
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