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Blog Post Character Development

Creating Characters for Cozy Fantasy: A

Writer's Guide
Discover tropes, archetypes, occupations, and the framework of an arc to
inspire your cast of cozy characters.
by The Campfire Team

Table of Contents

Types of Cozy Characters

Common Cozy Character Tropes
Archetypes That Fit Cozy Fantasy Well
Archetypes to Subvert in a Cozy
Put Your Cozy Characters to Work
Craft Their Arc With Purpose

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Table of Contents

Types of Cozy Characters

Common Cozy Character Tropes
11 Minute Read
Archetypes That Fit Cozy Fantasy Well
Archetypes to Subvert in a Cozy
Put Your Cozy Characters to Work
CozyTheir
Craft fantasy offers
Arc With a special kind of escapism. It’s a genre where
Purpose
enchanting worlds are drafted up with low stakes and inviting settings.
Yet, the true essence of coziness in these stories often lies in their
inhabitants. What, then, defines a cozy character?
While there's no strict formula, certain traits and characteristics crop up
time and time again. In this guide, we'll cover:

The common types of cozy characters and related tropes.

Character archetypes they can slip into or subvert.
Cozy jobs to fill up their day-to-day.
Crafting their arc from the first act to the last.

Now, let's see how you can create a cast of characters that not only
embody the cozy spirit but also carry a unique flair that makes them
distinctly yours.

Types of Cozy Characters

Cozy fantasy brings to life a variety of characters, each with their own
brand of charm that fits snugly into the cozy genre.
 Images: Nimona (2023, ©Netflix), Shrek (2001, ©Dreamworks Animation), Cover of
Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree (2022, ©Tor Books), Despicable Me (2010,
©Universal Pictures).

Ordinary Humans

Where better to start than with everyday folk? In cozy fantasy, ordinary
humans often serve as relatable anchors to offer a sense of familiarity in
fantastical settings. They represent the average human experience,
making them accessible and endearing to readers.
To make them extra cozy: Reflect on the qualities of those who bring
comfort and safety into your life, and then emulate these traits in your
human characters to create a sense of homeliness and warmth.

Witches

Traditionally seen as mysterious and arcane, witches in cozy fantasy often

display a more nurturing, earth-bound magic. Blending herbal lore with
life-enhancing spells, they serve as wise healers, quirky potion masters, or
eccentric fairy godmothers.
To make them extra cozy: Lean into the nurturing aspects of witchcraft,
drawing inspiration from nature-centric magic or Wicca and Druidry to
conjure witches who are more healers than hexers.

Vampires

Vampires in cozy fantasy can be reimagined as charming, misunderstood

beings. Far from their ancient roots in Gothic lit and horror, cozy vampires
can be cultured, introverted, and even comical, bringing an unexpected
twist to the archetype.
To make them extra cozy: Turn the vampire trope on its head—think
eccentric vampires with a penchant for garlic mayonnaise or a love for
sunlight. Writing rules are made to be broken, after all!
Looking for inspiration? Check out Sarah Andersen's graphic novel, Fangs!
It's a cute, quirky, slice-of-life cozy romance about a 300-year-old vampire
who finds a charming werewolf to share a life of macabre with.

Shifters

Shifters in cozy fantasy are versatile thanks to their ability to adapt and
transform at the drop of a hat (that is, if they haven’t already become
one). They can mirror the needs and moods of those around them,
offering comfort in various forms.
To make them extra cozy: Let your shapeshifter transform into whatever
brings peace and joy to those around them, like a pet for a cuddle or a
friendly face in times of need.
Though the story itself is objectively not cozy, the main characters from
Netflix's Nimona fit well as an example here—Nimona is an absolute
sunshine shapeshifter to her grumpy knight counterpart, Ballister
Boldheart. There is definitely a sense of coziness there between the two of
them. Grumpy sunshine? Check.

Ogres

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last 20 years, you should be
well aware that ogres have layers. Indeed, history has proven they can be
gentle giants with hearts of gold hidden beneath their otherwise rough
exteriors.
To make them extra cozy: Subvert expectations by portraying ogres with
a quietness to them or a softer spirit. Perhaps they have a penchant for
knitting or pizza-making—swap out their rock clubs for life-sized knitting
needles and pizza peels! Or, maybe they are involved in a grumpy
sunshine relationship a lá Shrek and Donkey. The story potential is
endless.

Orcs

Cozy orcs are far removed from their typical portrayal as brutish warriors.
Instead, they can be tenderhearted, intelligent, and conflict-averse—just
look at soldier-turned-coffee-shop-owner Viv in Travis Baldree’s Legends &
Lattes.
To make them extra cozy: Dress orcs in cozy attire like sweaters or
spectacles. Alternatively, give them cute hobbies just like their cousins, the
ogres. Some fun examples include dog-walking or candle-making to take
the edge off their…greener features.

Ghosts

Ghosts in cozy fantasy often play the role of wise, humorous, or even
protective spirits. They can be ancestors offering guidance or friendly
spirits sharing tales and wisdom, like the ones stalking (or rather, loitering)
the halls of Hogwarts.
To make them extra cozy: Incorporate ghosts as benevolent, meddling
figures who interact with the living in helpful and heartwarming ways.
There is, frankly, no character type that can’t be cozified, even villains.
Here’s looking at Gru, kid.

Common Cozy Character Tropes

Once you’ve chosen who your characters are going to be, it’s time to flesh
them out with well-rounded personalities and cozy interior worlds.

Characters Module in Campfire.

Here are some common tropes to get you started:

They Are Everyday People: Cozy characters are often reminiscent of

the friendly faces we encounter in daily life. Readers can easily relate
to their struggles, triumphs, and down-to-earth natures.
Eccentric Personalities Shine Through: Now think about the
kookiest person you know. That’s right, in cozy fantasy, characters
often have delightfully eccentric traits that set them apart from the
crowd. Their idiosyncrasies, whether in mannerisms or interests, can
add humor and unpredictability to your story.
Bibliophiles at Heart: A love for books and literature is a prevailing
trait among cozy characters. These characters often find solace and
adventure within the pages of a novel and might be found curled up
with a paperback by the fire, running a quaint bookstore, or discussing
their favorite authors at a book club.
Amateur Detectives in Action: Many cozy characters indulge in
amateur sleuthing, unraveling mysteries in their close-knit
communities. Their investigative pursuits are typically light-hearted,
showcasing their cleverness and curiosity without ever putting them in
serious peril.
Quirky Hobbies Galore: From wild mushroom foraging to knitting
sweaters for cats, cozy characters often have unique hobbies and
special interests. Not only do these activities help to flesh out
characters' personalities, but they also offer opportunities for
whimsical subplots.
Furry Companions Allowed: Animal companions or familiars like
imps and sprites are a staple in cozy fantasy. These endearing
creatures provide comfort, companionship, and sometimes, a touch of
magical assistance, opening up new storytelling avenues.

Character type? Done. Character tropes? Picked out. But wait... Who is
your character really?
Let's talk about the kinds of character archetypes that might help you dig
deeper into your cozy characters' psyches.

Archetypes That Fit Cozy Fantasy Well

Character archetypes exist for a reason—they make for strong,
compelling, and memorable characters. Even more so, they come pre-
packaged with archetypal wants and needs.

Carl Jung's 12 archetypes divided into groups by their four cardinal orientations.

We've picked out six of the twelve common character archetypes that fit
the vibes of cozy fantasy well, and they are divided into four cardinal
orientations. How many of Carl Jung’s examples do you recognize?

Provide Structure to the World

The Caregiver Wants to be of Service: Compassionate and

nurturing, Caregivers offer an endless well of support and kindness,
often as secondary characters. They're driven by a fundamental desire
to help others, providing aid to the protagonist or those in need, even
if it puts them out.

Yearn For Paradise

The Innocent Wants Safety: Innocent characters bring a pure,

optimistic energy to cozy fantasy. Their naivety and genuine belief in
the goodness of others make them an endearing, positive force in the
narrative, and they may even rub off on the grumps around them.
Negativity, be gone!
 The Explorer Wants Freedom: Ideal for cozy mysteries or
adventures, the Explorer thrives in small, socially intimate settings like
villages or tribes. They are naturally curious, often unraveling local
mysteries or engaging in lighthearted investigations.

Leave a Mark on the World

The Magician Wants Power: In cozy fantasy, magic is a benevolent

force for good. Characters might wield gentle, helpful enchantments
like conjuring coffee beans or magicking up mimosas. Their magic
brings wonder and awe, which is exactly what your writing should
inspire in your readers.

Connect With Others

The Jester Wants Enjoyment: Humor is a key ingredient in keeping

cozies light, even when tackling more intense subjects like missing
people or feuds. The Jester excels in this role, ensuring that even in
the midst of intrigue or conflict, the story retains its cheerful and jovial
essence.
The Orphan/Everyman Wants Belonging: Orphans in cozy fantasy
often embark on journeys of self-discovery and finding their place in
the world. Their story arcs typically lead to finding a sense of
belonging or community, either with a biological or chosen family—the
perfect basis for a happy ending.

When using well-worn archetypes, it’s important to differentiate them

enough that your readers aren’t reminded too much of existing
characters. Which leads us nicely into…

Archetypes to Subvert in a Cozy

Chart unexpected territory by creatively reimagining archetypes typically
not associated with the cozy genre:

Provide Structure to the World

 The Ruler/Villain Wants Control: In cozy fantasy, even antagonists
have a softer side. Rather than being outright evil, they can possess a
blend of positive and negative traits. These characters are typically
loosely connected to the community, similar to the Ice King from
Adventure Time, who evolves from a seemingly malevolent figure to
one with a complex, empathetic backstory.

Leave a Mark on the World

The Hero/Warrior Wants Mastery: Traditionally, heroes and warriors

are known for grand battles and epic shows of strength. In a cozy
setting, focus on their life beyond conflict. What hobbies or interests
do they pursue in quieter moments? Cozy fantasy allows these
characters to show a different side, engaging in more mundane but
equally fulfilling activities.
The Outlaw/Rebel Wants Liberation: Flip the rebel outlaw/trope by
having your protagonist choose a peaceful, cozy life over their
destined path. Picture an intergalactic bandit who dreams of fleeing to
a quiet planet and running an antique shop instead. In doing so, you
can explore universal themes of self-discovery and the pursuit of
personal happiness over external expectations.

What About Reluctant/Retired Heroes?

The reluctant or retired hero is an especially loved character

trope/archetype (yes, both!) in the fantasy genre. As an archetype, it has
an added layer of complexity to it because it doesn't quite fit into one of
Jung's models neatly.
Instead, the retired hero has transcended an archetype (the Hero) and is
now something new. Here's what we recommend:

They are now the Everyman (Orphan) who wants belonging and to
connect with others.
Or, they are now an Explorer who wants freedom and yearns for
paradise.

Now that they’ve hung up their sword for good, what does retirement look
like for someone accustomed to a life of adventure? Take care to reveal
the person behind the legend as they find joy in simpler, everyday
pleasures and a new sense of purpose.

Put Your Cozy Characters to Work

You've picked out your character, dug into their grey matter, and came
out with a personality, a description, and their wants and needs. Now,
they need something to do!

Locations Module in Campfire.

In cozy fantasy, a character's occupation is more than just a job; it's an

extension of their personality and, in many cases, foundational to the
story's plot.
Here are some of the most common, lovingly mundane jobs your
characters can apply to right away:

Baker: Bakers earn their living making sweet and savory treats for the
community, filling the air with comforting aromas.
Librarian: Guardians of knowledge, librarians create a haven of
tranquility and discovery within their walls. Examples abound in all
forms of media!
Farmer: They tend to crops and animals, they live close to the land,
and they provide sustenance to townsfolk. A cozy triple threat!
 Shopkeeper: A local shop can become a bustling community hub with
the right shopkeeper—a cozy third place for your characters to meet.
Healer: Envision a witch’s house on the outskirts of a forested village,
where characters can purchase healing potions and brews.
Animal Caretaker: Simultaneously a cute, wholesome job and a great
place to introduce some furry companions.
Innkeeper: Innkeepers provide a cozy refuge for travelers, creating a
home away from home with warmth and hospitality.

None of the above feel quite right? Take inspiration from your own life
and make them a writer! Just make sure to give them a cozy setup—
candles or soft lighting, plants and knick-knacks, a throw blanket plus a
few pillows, and a nook to work from all make up the perfect cozy space.

Craft Their Arc With Purpose

With your cozy characters defined (and employed), it’s time to shape their
world and lay the foundations for their story.

Timeline Module in Campfire.

Step One: Define Their Comfort Zone

Your characters' comfort zone is their sanctuary, where they feel most at
ease. This could be in their home, their place of work, or somewhere they
like to spend their free time, like the great outdoors.
Describe their daily routines, from brewing morning tea to tending a
garden to doing a paper round. This sets the stage, showcasing their
hobbies, relationships, and the small joys that make up their world. The
goal is to put your readers in their shoes before the meat of the story
begins.

Step Two: Give Them a Problem

In cozy fantasy, the inciting incident needn't be earth-shattering. It's often

a subtle nudge that disrupts the protagonist's routine. Whether it's the
arrival of a new love interest, a challenging customer at work, or a small
community issue, these problems gently coax the characters out of their
comfort zones.
The key is to introduce a catalyst that's compelling yet not overwhelming
—the pebble that creates ripples in their otherwise calm pond.
In Becky Chamber's A Psalm for the Wild-Built, main character Dex is driven
to leave everything they know behind to find a new purpose as a Tea
Monk. Their inciting incident? They live in a far-future solarpunk world
where many species have gone extinct (or nearly so). After hearing the
virtual sounds of a certain kind of cricket, they feel they must venture out
into the wilderness to find this cricket and hear their singing live.

Step Three: Self-Growth as a Solution

As mentioned, the path to resolving these challenges in cozy fantasy is

marked by personal growth and stronger community connections.
Characters may learn new skills, forge unexpected friendships, or gain
insights into their desires and fears.
The journey might involve solving a community problem, navigating a first
romance, or rediscovering a lost passion. Though the stakes are cozy and
the obstacles manageable, the growth is real and meaningful.
At the story’s end, the resolution should bring a sense of fulfillment, as
characters emerge wiser, more connected, and content—the true spirit of
cozy fantasy.
 The Final Stitch

Cozy fantasy opens the door to a diverse range of character possibilities,

proving that nearly any trope or archetype can be adapted to fit the genre.
Now, go forth and watch as your uniquely cozy character comes to life,
ready to charm the pages of your story.

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