On writing good characters with dwarfism
The questions I get most often on this platform usually relate to the inclusion of characters with dwarfism in media - whether it be in writing, film, or role play games such as Dungeons and Dragons, the question remains: How do I write good LP characters? How do I include people with dwarfism in my writing/film in a respectful manner?
First, we need to understand what's already out there when it comes to dwarf representation. Most often when little people are included in stories, the characters fall into one of four categories: side kick, misfit, comic relief or mystical creature. They are not heroes nor main characters, they do not push the plot forward or fall in love. They are usually one dimensional and comical, or fall under the made up race of "dwarves" such as in Tolken or Dragon Age. They are dehumanized, objectified, and made a mockery.
To begin writing dwarf characters well, several things have to happen:
One must reject the culture surrounding fantasy "dwarves" and write based on real people with dwarfism. Do your research on the disability and talk to real little people.
Stray from harmful tropes such as the "small and angry" archetype (ex: mini me in austin powers) and "group of minis" (ex: snow white and the seven dwarfs, wizard of oz, charlie and the chocolate factory).
Humanize and individualize your dwarf character(s) - make them well rounded, serious, thought out characters. Include them in your plot in ways that matter.
And to do so, it's also of the utmost importance that writers and creatures understand dwarf history. Knowing that little people had a long history of enslavement, of being used for entertainment such as in circuses and freak shows, of social and medical discrimination. Knowing that so many of the harmful stereotypes and tropes used in film and media can be traced back to our history of enslavement.
Do not make them the butt of the joke. Do not base your character design off of gnomes, elves, or jolly beings. Don't allow them to exist for comic relief.
Show them as active members of society. Knowing that historically little people were often midwives, seamstresses, tailors and blacksmiths - that today they work in all manner of fields.
Find the beauty in dwarf bodies, how they can be romantic and sexual, fashionable and beautiful. Make your audience fall in love.
Give your character or characters full and happy lives. Fill them with love and sex and family and community.
Provide the positive representation that the dwarf community is hungry for, that we so rarely get to see.
- Elliot (they/them)
This is just the beginning to get you thinking :) follow and send asks for more information on dwarfism! xoxo
