Final answer:
A character that remains unchanged throughout a story is known as a static character. Flat characters are simple and one-dimensional, while round characters are complex and multi-dimensional. Both flat and round characters can be static if they do not undergo any change.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Characters in Literature
The description of a character that does not change and whose personality remains consistent throughout a story applies to a static character. By contrast, a dynamic character undergoes significant transformation in terms of personality or attitude as the story progresses. Flat characters are generally simple and one-dimensional, often symbolizing a single idea or quality. These characters are not explored in depth and are easy to summarize. Meanwhile, round characters are complex and well-developed, possessing a depth in personality that often changes and grows throughout the narrative. Flat and round characters can both be static if they do not undergo any change, but typically, round characters are also dynamic.
An example of a flat and static character can be found in Dickens' "David Copperfield", where Mrs. Micawber claims "I will never desert Mr Micawber," and throughout the story, she remains true to her word without significant change in character. In E.M. Forster's "Aspects of the Novel", characters are split into round and flat, with the round ones being capable of surprising readers in a believable way, much like real people would. Static characters often serve a specific narrative or thematic function and usually undergo little or no change, providing a contrast to dynamic characters who evolve significantly.