What is a Protagonist — A Breakdown of Different Types and Functions of the Main Character

Summary

This video explores the concept of a protagonist in storytelling, discussing traditional features, different archetypes, and exceptions. From the classic hero to anti-heroes, tragic figures, passive characters, and villain protagonists, it breaks down how each type drives a narrative forward. It also examines multiple protagonists, dual protagonists, and divided protagonist functions in stories. The video emphasizes how a protagonist's choices and struggles shape the theme and engage the audience, no matter the story type.

Takeaways

• 🎭 A protagonist is the lead character in a story, often central to the action and conflict.
• 📝 The term protagonist originates from Greek words meaning 'first actor', evolving from ancient Greek tragedies.
• 🦸 The most common protagonist archetype is the hero, a brave and admirable character, often facing a powerful antagonist.
• ⚔️ Anti-heroes lack traditional heroic qualities but still have goals that drive the plot, like in 'Kill Bill'.
• 😔 Tragic heroes begin with noble qualities but are doomed by a fatal flaw, like Jay Gatsby in 'The Great Gatsby'.
• 🌀 Passive protagonists may be at the story's center, but others make key decisions, like Sarah Connor in 'The Terminator'.
• 😈 Villain protagonists exist when the central character is a bad guy, but the audience follows their downfall or fate.
• 🤝 Stories can have dual protagonists, as seen in buddy comedies or romantic dramas, where both characters share the narrative arc.
• 👥 Multiple protagonists can exist, such as in 'Lord of the Rings' with Frodo as the lead and others as supporting characters.
• 🎬 Some films divide protagonist roles, like Andy and Red in 'The Shawshank Redemption', where one drives the plot and the other experiences the growth.

Q & A

What is the definition of a protagonist?

A protagonist is the lead character, hero, or heroine of a narrative. This character is often at the center of the action and has the most significant impact on the story's development.

Where does the term 'protagonist' originate?

The term 'protagonist' originates from ancient Greek, combining 'protos' (meaning 'first') and 'agonistēs' (meaning 'actor'), originally used in Greek tragedies to denote the primary actor.

What is the difference between a hero and an anti-hero protagonist?

A hero protagonist typically embodies bravery, righteousness, and a willingness to help others, while an anti-hero protagonist may lack conventional heroic qualities, often being cynical or morally ambiguous, yet still having a goal the audience can root for.

How does a tragic hero differ from a traditional hero?

A tragic hero shares many qualities with a traditional hero but ultimately faces a downfall due to a personal flaw or circumstance. Their journey usually ends in tragedy, often due to choices that lead to their undoing.

Can a story have more than one protagonist? If so, how?

Yes, a story can have multiple protagonists, such as in buddy comedies or romantic stories. In these cases, multiple characters share the central role, each contributing to the plot and character development.

What is a passive protagonist?

A passive protagonist is a central character who experiences the story but does not actively drive the plot forward. Other characters make key decisions, while the passive protagonist typically undergoes the most significant character development.

What is a deuteragonist, and how does it relate to the protagonist?

A deuteragonist is the second most important character in a story, supporting the protagonist and often having a significant but secondary role. They play an essential part in the protagonist's journey and the plot.

How does the story change when there is a villain protagonist?

A story with a villain protagonist focuses on a character with morally questionable or outright evil actions, allowing the audience to explore dark themes. Typically, viewers are not rooting for their success but remain engaged to see their fate.

What makes a protagonist's choices significant in storytelling?

A protagonist's choices are crucial because they push the plot forward, influence the story's theme, and shape the protagonist's transformation. This process builds emotional investment from the audience.

What role does a protagonist's goal play in a story?

A protagonist's goal serves as the main driver of their actions and decisions. Whether heroic or anti-heroic, their pursuit of this goal typically frames the plot and helps convey the story's message or theme.