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In English / High School | 2014-11-30

Which best describes an antagonist?

A. The main character, often a hero
B. A well-developed character who is important to the story
C. The character who is in conflict with the protagonist, a "bad guy"
D. A poorly developed character

Asked by SandieVerrone

Answer (3)

You got protagonist and antagonist mixed up. The antagonist is a person, group of people, or a force that opposes or dislikes the main character. The protagonist is the leading character in the story and is usually good. So the antagonist would be the bad guy and the protagonist would be the hero of a story.

Answered by MeganM | 2024-06-10

The best description of an antagonist is that it is a character, or sometimes a different kind of force, such as a society, a set of ideas, or a natural obstacle, that opposes the protagonist. The protagonist is the main character around whom the story revolves, and they often face a conflict with the antagonist.
An antagonist often serves as a foil to the protagonist, highlighting contrasting traits and adding depth to the narrative. It is important to note that an antagonist isn't always a 'bad guy.' They may simply have goals or actions that conflict with those of the protagonist. In stories with complex themes, the antagonist could represent a larger idea or societal force.
For example, in Shakespeare's Hamlet, the antagonist may be considered Claudius, whereas in Sophocles' Antigone, Creon takes up this role. The antagonist is a crucial part of the story's structure, presenting obstacles and challenges the protagonist must overcome. Supporting characters, though not as central as protagonists or antagonists, also play significant roles in driving the story forward and supporting the narrative's progression.

Answered by AngelinaGermanotta | 2024-06-24

An antagonist is a character or force that opposes the protagonist in a story, often causing conflict. The most fitting description from the provided options is C, as it captures the essence of the antagonist being in conflict with the main character. Antagonists can be villains, societal norms, or even abstract forces that create obstacles for the protagonist.
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Answered by MeganM | 2024-10-14