protagnistes

Protagnistes refers to the main character in a narrative, though the standard English form is protagonist (plural protagonists). The etymology is Greek: protagonistes meaning the first actor or chief actor on stage, from proto- 'first' and agonistes 'actor' or 'contestant'. Protagnistes are typically the focal point around whom the plot revolves. They drive the central goals, confront challenges, and often undergo personal change.

In narrative structure, the protagniste's desires create conflict with opposing forces, frequently represented by an antagonist. Other characters function as supporters, foils, mentors, or catalysts to the protagniste's arc. The perspective may be aligned with the protagniste (first-person or limited third-person) to shape audience alignment, or it may be more distant in omniscient narration.

There can be a single protagniste or multiple co-protagonists in a story with ensemble casts. Protagonist roles can vary: a traditional hero, a flawed anti-hero, or an unlikely everyman, depending on genre and authorial intent. The protagniste's arc typically involves growth or transformation that reflects the work's themes.

Examples commonly cited as protagnistes include Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, Hamlet in Hamlet, and Harry Potter in the titular series; in many narratives, Frodo Baggins serves as a central protagniste in a broader ensemble.

Notes: Protagnistes is a rare or erroneous spelling; in formal writing, prefer 'protagonist' or 'protagonists'.

See also: Antagonist; character arc; narrative perspective; foil; narrator.