Definition:

In literature, an antagonist is a character, group of characters, or an entity that opposes the protagonist, who is the central character or the main character in a story.

Characteristics:

• The antagonist is typically presented as the enemy, rival, or nemesis of the protagonist.
• They create conflict and obstacles that the protagonist must overcome throughout the narrative.
• An antagonist may possess different motivations, such as power, revenge, or simply being driven by opposing values or goals.
• They often serve as a source of tension and help drive the plot forward.

Types of Antagonists:

• Individual: This type of antagonist is a single character who directly opposes the protagonist.
• Group: Sometimes, the antagonist can be a group, organization, or a collective force that works against the protagonist.
• Environmental: In some cases, the antagonist might be an external force or situation, such as nature, society, or an abstract concept.

Examples:

Well-known examples of antagonists include:

• Darth Vader from Star Wars
• The Joker from Batman
• The White Witch from The Chronicles of Narnia
• Sauron from The Lord of the Rings