What is "character motivation" in storytelling?

Character motivation in storytelling refers to the underlying reasons behind a character's actions and decisions, which are crucial for driving the narrative forward. It encompasses the desires, goals, and internal conflicts that propel a character to act in certain ways throughout the story. Understanding a character's motivation helps the audience empathize with them and recognize the stakes involved in their journey.

Motivation plays a vital role in making characters relatable and dynamic, allowing their actions to resonate with the audience. It's not just about what characters do; it's about why they do it, which enhances the plot and deepens the viewer's investment in the story.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of storytelling that, while important, do not encompass the concept of character motivation. The physical actions of a character describe what they physically do without providing context for their reasoning. Relationships between characters describe their interactions but do not delve into the motivations driving individual actions. Lastly, an actor's interpretation contributes to the portrayal of a character but does not specifically address the foundational motivations behind the character's choices.