[Contextual Studies] Characterisation and True Character

When looking at 'Characterisation' and the underlying 'True Character', I decided to look at Jim Raynor from the Starcraft series of games.

Jim Raynor is an ex-criminal turned freedom fighter who fights to save mankind from the seemingly oppressive rule of the Terran Dominion. I used Raynor as an example due to the stark contrast between his characterisation and his true character.

Raynor is characterised as a villainous looking outlaw who has is "well-worn and rough in appearance." He is laden with multiple tattoos and frequently talks about criminal acts he's committed in the past such as robbing trains with a gang of thieves. Raynor is also depicted as smoking in various concept art.

Raynor's true character couldn't be further from his outer appearance. Although represented as an outlaw by the Terran Dominion, whose territory he frequently raids, Raynor's motives are virtuous and noble. As the player continues the story of Starcraft, they realise the oppressive and exploitive nature of the Terran Dominion, and that Jim Raynor is a freedom fighter looking to liberate rather than a bandit looking to plunder. In the Starcraft fiction novels, Raynor is described by his men as "a decent and honorable man that is well liked by those under his command". They also comment that, "Raynor is always willing to do the right thing, no matter how difficult it may be". The actor who voiced Jim Raynor comments that he is a "true hero in the purest sense of the word". In Starcraft 2 Raynor is frequently depicted going to the aid of those in need, even if it requires sacrifices from him.


Although Jim Raynor is depicted as an arrogant, aggressive outlaw, the true character couldn't be more different. It is a true case of not judging a book by its cover.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/StarCraft:_Liberty%27s_Crusade#Novelizations
http://www.blizzplanet.com/blog/comments/starcraft_2_jim_raynor_blizzard_and_the_ugly
http://us.battle.net/sc2/en/game/hero/jim-raynor