What is an Antihero? How to Write an Unconventional Protagonist

Summary

In this video, Jerry Jenkins discusses how to create compelling anti-heroes and unconventional protagonists in writing. He explains that while traditional heroes like Superman are popular, readers connect more with flawed characters who exhibit human traits. Jenkins outlines five types of anti-heroes: the classic anti-hero, the knight in sour armor, the pragmatic anti-hero, the unscrupulous anti-hero, and the anti-hero who is a hero in name only. He provides examples and suggests character development tips, offering resources for writers to build both anti-heroes and their adversaries. The video encourages writers to explore these character types in their own storytelling.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid creating a perfect protagonist, as readers relate better to flawed, human characters.
• 😀 A traditional hero's perfection makes it difficult for readers to imagine themselves in that role.
• 😀 Anti-heroes are protagonists who possess villainous qualities but are still compelling to readers.
• 😀 An anti-hero's rise to heroism must feel inevitable, yet not predictable or unrealistic.
• 😀 The five types of anti-heroes include: Classic Anti-hero, Knight in Sour Armor, Pragmatic Anti-hero, Unscrupulous Anti-hero, and Hero in Name Only.
• 😀 Classic Anti-heroes are flawed, self-centered, insecure characters who become heroic by overcoming personal fears.
• 😀 Knight in Sour Armor anti-heroes are fundamentally good but cynical, sarcastic, and emotionally detached.
• 😀 Pragmatic Anti-heroes are willing to compromise on morality to achieve their goals, targeting only those who deserve it.
• 😀 Unscrupulous Anti-heroes will do anything to achieve their objectives, regardless of ruthless behavior, but believe their intentions are good.
• 😀 Hero in Name Only characters blur the line between hero and villain, motivated by personal gain or revenge rather than moral goodness.

Q & A

What is the main mistake writers make when creating protagonists?

The main mistake is making protagonists perfect, as readers want to see themselves in heroes and relate to their flaws and imperfections.

Why is it important for a protagonist to have flaws?

Flaws make a protagonist more relatable and believable. Readers can identify with characters who struggle, and this increases their emotional investment in the story.

What makes anti-heroes different from traditional heroes?

Anti-heroes lack the qualities of a traditional hero, such as strong moral values, unwavering courage, or movie-star looks. They may possess villainous traits but still undertake heroic actions.

Can you give an example of an anti-hero from popular culture?

Examples of anti-heroes include Hannibal Lecter from 'The Silence of the Lambs', Scarlet O'Hara from 'Gone with the Wind', and Walter White from 'Breaking Bad'.

What are the key characteristics of a classic anti-hero?

A classic anti-hero is self-centered, insecure, and morally ambiguous. Their character arc typically involves overcoming personal fears and insecurities to become a hero.

How does the 'knight in sour armor' anti-hero archetype differ from others?

The 'knight in sour armor' is fundamentally good but cynical and sarcastic. He may have good intentions but often acts in a detached, emotionally cold manner, showing a lack of warmth or empathy.

What distinguishes a pragmatic anti-hero from others?

A pragmatic anti-hero is focused on achieving their goal, regardless of the moral cost. They know right from wrong but are willing to commit acts that would normally be seen as wrong, as long as they serve the greater good.

How do unscrupulous anti-heroes operate in their narratives?

Unscrupulous anti-heroes will do anything to achieve their goals, even if their actions are ruthless or morally wrong. Unlike pragmatic anti-heroes, they have little to no moral compass, but they believe their intentions justify their means.

What makes the anti-hero who is a 'hero in name only' different from other anti-heroes?

This type of anti-hero often operates with morally neutral or even villainous intentions. Their actions are driven by personal motivations like revenge or protection, and their character arc may involve becoming increasingly corrupt or ruthless.

How can writers use character profiles when creating anti-heroes?

Writers can use character profiles to outline the anti-hero's traits, motivations, and potential character arc. This is particularly helpful for outliners, while pantsers can allow the character to evolve naturally through the writing process.