Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:09:36 +0000

Mary Sue Definition Exposed: Why This Character Type Ruins Every Story (And How to Avoid It!) In the world of storytelling, some characters feel less like fully realized people and more like plot devices designed to impress. Known as the infamous Mary Sue, this trope has sparked endless debate among writers and readers alike. Whether in fanfiction, novels, or screenwriting, the Mary Sue undermines narrative tension, disengages audiences, and ruins otherwise compelling stories. But what exactly is a Mary Sue? Why does this archetype weaken storytelling? And how can writers avoid falling into its trap? Let’s dive deep. --- ### What Is a Mary Sue?