Dan Harmon Story Circle Worksheet

Unlocking the Power of Storytelling: Dan Harmon's Story Circle Worksheet

Dan Harmon’s Story Circle is a narrative framework that has been widely adopted in the writing community. It’s a versatile tool that can be applied to various forms of storytelling, from screenwriting to novel writing. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of the Story Circle, exploring its components, benefits, and how to use it to elevate your writing.

A Brief History of the Story Circle

The Story Circle is based on the work of Joseph Campbell, an American mythologist and scholar. Campbell’s concept of the “Hero’s Journey” describes the universal pattern of the hero’s transformation in mythology and storytelling. Dan Harmon, a writer and producer, adapted Campbell’s idea and created the Story Circle, a more simplified and accessible framework for writers.

Understanding the Story Circle

The Story Circle consists of eight stages, which are divided into two main sections: the Setup and the Payoff. Each stage serves a specific purpose in the narrative, guiding the protagonist through a transformative journey.

Setup

1. A character is in a zone of comfort: The protagonist is introduced in their ordinary world, where they feel comfortable and secure.
2. But they desire something they don’t have: The protagonist experiences a sense of longing or desire for something that is lacking in their life.
3. They enter an unfamiliar situation: The protagonist is thrust into a new and unfamiliar environment, where they must navigate uncertainty.
4. Where they must adapt to a new reality: The protagonist must adjust to the new situation and learn to cope with its challenges.

Payoff

1. They get what they wanted, but it comes with a price: The protagonist achieves their goal, but it’s not without consequences.
2. They pay the price: The protagonist must face the repercussions of their actions and the cost of achieving their goal.
3. They return to their zone of comfort, but changed: The protagonist returns to their ordinary world, but they have undergone a significant transformation.
4. Having gained a new perspective: The protagonist has acquired new knowledge, insight, or understanding, which has altered their perspective on life.

Benefits of Using the Story Circle

The Story Circle offers several benefits to writers:

• Structural clarity: The framework provides a clear structure for your story, helping you to organize your narrative and ensure a logical flow of events.
• Character development: By following the Story Circle, you can create a compelling character arc, where your protagonist undergoes a meaningful transformation.
• Thematic resonance: The Story Circle helps you to explore themes and ideas in a way that resonates with your audience.

Using the Story Circle Worksheet

To apply the Story Circle to your writing, you can use the following worksheet:

By filling out this worksheet, you can ensure that your story follows the Story Circle framework, creating a compelling narrative with a strong character arc.

📝 Note: The Story Circle is a flexible framework, and you can adjust it to fit your specific writing needs. Feel free to modify the stages or add your own twists to create a unique narrative.

In conclusion, the Story Circle is a powerful tool for writers, offering a clear structure and character development framework. By using the Story Circle worksheet, you can create a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience. Remember to be flexible and adapt the framework to fit your unique writing needs.

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