The main character in a story, usually viewed as the “hero” in some way, is known as the `____`; the character who is working against him or her, the “bad guy,” is the `____`.

Flashcard 11 - Literary Terms Flashcard Set for the English Basics

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protagonist; antagonist

Explanation:

To help you remember which is which, consider the prefix of each word. As a prefix, pro- means to be for something or in favor of it. So the protagonist is going to be the character the reader wants to cheer on, the good guy we want to see win and be successful. The prefix ant- (or anti-) means to be against or opposite of. The antagonist goes against the protagonist, causing conflict or obstructing the protagonist’s success. So, pro is good, ant is bad.

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