7 Types of Characters in Literature

by Patricia Iliuc @patricia.iliuc

Embark on a literary (and cinematic) journey as we unravel the diverse tapestry of characters that breathe life into stories.

Hey you! Are you ready to step into a world where characters become more than just words on a page? Join us as we explore the various types of characters that populate the realms of literature and spill onto the silver screen. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, from the heroic to the villainous, the romantic to the mysterious.

1. Protagonist

The Heroes We Root For

Our first stop is the realm of protagonists, the central figures who steer the narrative ship. Picture the courageous Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games Series, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins from The Hobbit, and the young, inspiring dancer Billy Elliott.

2. Antagonist

Villains We Love to Hate

No story is complete without a worthy adversary. Delve into the chaotic world of antagonists, from the iconic Joker in Batman to the fashion forward yet sinister Cruella DeVil in 101 Dalmatians. And yes, we'll even step into the movie realm with Nina Sayers in Black Swan.

3. Love Interest

A Symphony of Romance

Ah, the allure of love. Meet the love interests who add a romantic flair to tales. Whether it's the enigmatic Mr. Darcy in Pride & Prejudice or the unforgettable Jack Dawson in Titanic, these characters ignite sparks that transcend the pages.

4. Confidant

Companions on the Journey

Every protagonist needs a confidant, a sidekick or best friend who shares the adventure. Think of Alfred Pennyworth from The Batman or the fearless Princess Leia in Star Wars. They provide support, guidance, and a dash of humor.

5. Deuteragonists

Close Allies on Parallel Paths

Enter the world of deuteragonists, characters closely tied to the main plot but with distinct arcs. Marvel at the unwavering loyalty of Samwise Gamgee from Lord of the Rings or chuckle at the comedic brilliance of Donkey in Shrek (yes, this example was necessary).

6. Foil

Compelling Counterparts

Meet the foils, characters designed to contrast with the protagonist, highlighting their qualities. Witness the rivalry between Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter or the unique portrayal of Kevin McCallister's mom in Home Alone by the talented Catherine O’Hara.

7. Tertiary

Background Symphony

In the vast tapestry of storytelling, tertiary characters play a crucial role. Think of the legendary Jedi master Yoda from Star Wars, enriching the narrative without directly linking to the main storyline.

As you navigate through the diverse roles these characters play, remember that the world of literature (and movies) offers an endless playground for creativity. If you're inspired to craft your own stories, consider exploring the course Writing a Novel Step by Step by Cristina López Barrio (@cristinalopezbarrio).

And, of course, there’s always more to explore, more characters to discover, more stories to love. Dive into the links below and let your imagination run wild, my friend.

– Definition and Examples of Anaphora
– What are Literary Devices and What Types are There