So a while back, I had an idea come to me for a webcomic. I already have a few characters thought up and I know what I would like my setting to be, I just need help continuing the character process. The whole idea is that all of the characters appear physically as they mentally and emotionally see themselves through symbolism. For example: one of the characters I have already created has goat horns to show her hardheadedness and rebellious nature, her pointed and drooping ears show her as a lost sheep. If you could give me ideas for different characters and symbolism, it would be greatly appreciated!
You sound like you have a good idea, but perhaps once thing to do is look up symbolism or totem animals to build your characters with. For example, in shamanic practices the wolf is seen as a wise teacher. Maybe a parrot for a talkative person?
Are all of those animal-related? I could see variances in body shapes, such as a tall person who sees his/herself as a leader, muscles or lack of muscles to represent mental strength or even someone literally made of diamond because he/she sees his/herself as unbreakable. Beauty or ugliness could also scale well with the person's self esteem. Bigger or smaller heads would show perceived intelligence. Also, depending of the story's settings, I could see physical resemblances to known people or character, such as a self-perceived liberator rocking the che guevara hat, or a tyrant wearing Hitler's mustache. Otherwise, some animal traits that would hit me as representative would be: A lion for a leader Snake for a devious person Fox for a clever one Some kind of old ape for wisdom peacock for pride kitten features for someone who sees their cuteness as a feature Wings for resourcefulness Bear for strength Sheep for... well... sheepish personality etc
