Final answer:
Fear acts as a primary motivator in literature, driving characters to react in ways that move the plot forward. In 'Great Expectations,' Pip's encounter with a convict is a clear example of fear shaping his actions in the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
In literature, fear often acts as a primary motivator for characters and drives the events of a narrative. Focusing on one character from Act 1 of a literary work, we can illustrate how fear shapes their actions and the ensuing plot developments. Fear, being a profound emotional response, can propel characters into action or into making decisions that might not align with their usual character. The impact of fear is evident in numerous literary works, influencing characters to make pivotal choices or to react in a way that adds to the dramatic tension of the story.
Example from Literature
In the classic novel Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, the character of Pip encounters a "fearful man" in the churchyard. This meeting triggers a series of events motivated by Pip's fear. His dread of the convict and his own safety dramatically influence his subsequent actions, including his aid to the convict and his concerns about the repercussions. Such incidents drive the plot forward and allow readers to comprehend the significance of fear in characters' lives.