Creating Depth in Female Protagonists: What Modern Writers Often Overlook

Modern writers often make the mistake of focusing too much on a female protagonist’s external strengths and not enough on their internal complexities. A well-rounded female protagonist needs more than just physical power or independence—she needs to have flaws, fears, dreams, and growth. Think about characters like Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice or Joan Holloway from Mad Men. They are strong, but their strength is rooted in their personal journeys and their emotional intelligence.

Unfortunately, too many modern stories prioritize external strength over emotional depth, leaving their female leads feeling like archetypes rather than fully realized people. For example, characters who are portrayed as “strong” simply because they can fight or don’t need help often lack the internal conflict that drives true growth. Real strength comes from the ability to navigate complex emotions, to struggle with personal flaws, and to learn and evolve through challenges. Writers often overlook the importance of this internal development in favor of showcasing physical prowess or independence. The most compelling female protagonists are the ones who grow from their experiences, learn from their mistakes, and ultimately become stronger—not just because they can fight, but because they’ve faced their own personal struggles and emerged wiser and more complete.