Character Types

1. Character Types

2. Protagonist/Antagonist It is easiest to think of the protagonist and antagonist characters as the "good guy" and the "bad guy" respectively.

3. Hero and Villain In order to understand protagonist and antagonist, you can think of the protagonist as the hero and the antagonist as the villain.

4. Protagonist Central character of story Can be male or female Written as being "good" most of the time, but in some instances can be "bad." Story usually told from protagonists point of view.

5. Dystopian Protagonist Often feels trapped and is struggling to escape Questions the existing society and political systems Believes or feels that something is terribly wrong with society in which he or she lives Helps the audience recognize the negative aspects of the dystopian world through his or her perspective

6. The Anti-Hero: Love to hate him OR hate to love him?

7. What is an anti-hero? • An anti-hero is a protagonist who typically lacks the traditional traits and qualities of a hero, such as trustworthiness, courage, and honesty. • Unorthodox in actions— acts contrary to society’s standards.

8. Qualities: • Will have the reader’s sympathy—although this is sometimes difficult for us! • Is imperfect/ has imperfections • Has inner demons– we learn about these during the course of the story • Is often a screw-up, outsider, or loner

9. They… • aren’t role models • are selfish • are motivated by self interest or self preservation • often make bad choices because it’s easier • will embody bad behaviors when “wronged” • will show little remorse for bad behavior

10. Foils

11. What is a foil character? • A foil is a literary character that is intended to highlight attributes in another character through opposing traits. • An author creates a foil to emphasize traits in another character. Foils aren’t necessarily opposites; however, they highlight opposing traits.

12. Dr. Watson is a patient and sensitive observer. He is described as the typical Victorian-era gentleman, unlike the more eccentric Holmes.

13. Draco Malfoy He possesses opposing traits and he hinders Harry Potter’s courses of action.

14. Antagonist Causes or leads the conflict against the protagonist Not always human, but can be a group or force as well. Mirrors protagonist Whatever the protagonist does that is good, the antagonist will work to undo. Usually the antagonist attempts to disguise him/her/itself.