ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the aspects of historical figures that make compelling dramatic characters. Some features include psychological depth, a change in character through events and a personality that is colorful, dramatic or comedic and reflects their period place and time. Examples: the historical figure of Lyndon Johnson provided the basis of a character in Robert Schenkkan’s All the Way that was psychologically complex, colorful and well-known for his powers of manipulation and humorous southern anecdotes. The contrasting personalities of Norma McCorvey and Sarah Weddington provided an ideal opportunity for Lisa Loomer to create the central character conflict in Roe. Issues in adaptation include: changing characters’ depictions from history as seen in the way Shakespeare creates sharper moral distinctions between Brutus and Cassius than are found in Plutarch’s accounts. Examples of non-traditional, iconic characterization are also examined in Nancy Keystone’s Apollo.
