Mary Sue

A derogatory term coined to describe a certain type of poorly-written self-insert character in fanfiction, who warped canon characters' personalities and were jarringly out of place in the works in which they were placed. In more recent years, Mary Sues have ceased to exist beyond parody and adolescent fanfiction, but the term has been incorrectly used to label any (female) character who may share similar qualities (1) as these previous self-insert characters.

(1) Including, among other things, good looks, a tragic backstory, the romantic interest of other characters, unique abilities, and/or a wide array of talents.

Correct use:
"'Gee, golly, gosh, gloriosky,' thought Mary Sue as she stepped on the bridge of the Enterprise. 'Here I am, the youngest lieutenant in the fleet—only fifteen and a half years old.' Captain Kirk came up to her. 'Oh, Lieutenant, I love you madly. Will you come to bed with me?'" (From "A Trekkie's Tale", by Paula Smith)

Incorrect use:
"Wonder Woman is so overpowered--she's clearly a Mary Sue!"

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