kulcsszerepl

Kulcsszereplő (often written kulcsszereplő in Hungarian, with kulcsszerepl as a common non-diacritic variant) is a term used in narrative theory to describe a character who plays a key role in a work of fiction. The word combines kulcs, meaning “key,” and szereplő, meaning “character” or “player.” A kulcsszereplő is a central figure whose actions, decisions, or fate are essential to the plot’s progression and to the work’s thematic development.

The designation emphasizes narrative function rather than formal status in the cast list. A kulcsszereplő can be the főszereplő (lead character) or a major támogató szereplő (supporting character) whose choices trigger turning points or illuminate central themes. The boundary between kulcsszereplő and főszereplő is fluid and varies by critic; some scholars treat all truly pivotal figures as kulcsszereplők, regardless of their position in the cast.

In practice, identifying a kulcsszereplő helps readers or viewers understand why the story unfolds as it does and how its ideas are explored. In genres such as novels, drama, and film, the kulcsszereplő often anchors the narrative voice, drives conflicts, and embodies or challenges the work’s central concerns.

See also: főszereplő, mellékszereplő.