protagonis

Protagonist refers to the principal character or characters in a literary, dramatic, or cinematic work. This individual or group drives the narrative forward through their actions, motivations, and conflicts. The plot typically revolves around the protagonist's journey, their struggles, and their ultimate goals. Audiences often identify with or empathize with the protagonist, making them a central figure for emotional engagement.

The protagonist's role is not necessarily to be morally good; they can be flawed or even villainous, as seen in anti-hero narratives. The defining characteristic is their centrality to the story's unfolding events. Their decisions and reactions shape the direction of the plot, and the story often concludes with the protagonist achieving or failing to achieve their objectives. Understanding the protagonist is key to comprehending the themes and messages of a work. The antagonist, conversely, is usually the character or force that opposes the protagonist.