Understanding Protagonist Characters in Literature and Storytelling
Literary and cinematic storytelling revolves around the central character, the protagonist. This character drives the narrative and is the focal point of the audience's emotional investment. While traditionally thought of as a hero, the complexity of contemporary storytelling allows for protagonists that are far from virtuous, complex figures that engage our fascination and emotional investment.
What is a Protagonist?
The protagonist is the main character whose story is the primary focus of the narrative. They are the lens through which the audience sees the world and experiences the conflicts and challenges presented in the story. Unlike the character traits, it is the role of the protagonist within the story structure that defines them, not their inherent goodness or morality. Their journey is the heart of the story, and their resolution is crucial for the overall narrative.
Evil Protagonists and Anti-Heroes
It has become increasingly common to see protagonists who embody negative traits, characters who challenge our preconceived notions of right and wrong. One such example is Tanith Lee's Night's Master, where the protagonist is a demonic figure with no empathy towards humanity. Immortal and amused by their actions, they epitomize the idea of a character who is inherently evil yet still captivating to the audience. Their emotional evolution and the evolution of the story itself keep the readers engaged, despite their actions and nature.
Case Study: Gerald Tarrant in Coldfire Trilogy
Gerald Tarrant from The Coldfire Trilogy is a quintessential example of an antagonist that challenges conventional notions of goodness. Unlike the traditional anti-hero who displays relatable flaws, Gerald Tarrant is a full-fledged villain, making his journey from evil to a more complex moral position a deeply impactful story. His journey is about the consequences of his choices, much like Breaking Bad's Walter White, who ultimately faces the moral corruption of his actions.
The Role of Antagonists in Protagonist's Journey
While the protagonist drives the narrative and captures the audience's interest, the antagonist serves as a driving force against which the main character's journey unfolds. However, it is important to understand that an antagonist does not necessarily become a protagonist just because they oppose the protagonist's goals. An antagonist is a force that obstructs the protagonist's path, making their journey more challenging. This is exemplified by characters like Doctor Manhattan in Watchmen, who forces the protagonist to face ethical dilemmas, leading to profound character growth.
The Distinction Between Protagonists and Antagonists
The distinction between protagonists and antagonists is critical for understanding the structure of a story. While protagonists drive the narrative forward, antagonists challenge and provoke the protagonist, influencing the direction of the plot. Both characters serve vital roles in the story structure, balancing and complementing each other's actions and decisions.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of storytelling, the nature and role of the protagonist have shifted to include characters that defy traditional moral boundaries. Understanding these complex characters is crucial for capturing and retaining the audience's attention. Whether you are a seasoned author or a novice writing a screenplay, exploring the depth of your protagonist's character can lead to a more compelling narrative and a richer storytelling experience.