The 5 major characters in storytelling.
The 5 major characters in storytelling are the protagonist (hero), antagonist (villain), the mentor (guide), the sidekick (companion) and the foil (contrast).
Now let us move on from here to see the definition, roles and characteristics of these 5 major characters needed in storytelling.
The protagonist (hero).
The protagonist, who is also known as the hero is usually the main or central character around whom the whole story revolves.
His role in the story is to make the decisions as well as face all the challenges and obstacles that are available until he is finally able to achieve the goal or set of goals in the story.
The main characteristics of the protagonist is goal-oriented, and to make him more believable, you must ensure his personality is relatable to the audience. Which means that your character must act and talk like a real-life human as well as approach his goal or set of goals in a realistic manner.
The antagonist (villain).
The antagonist who is also known as the villain is the other character who opposes the protagonist by creating the obstacles and conflict intended to keep the protagonist from achieving the goal or set of goals in the story.
The main role of the antagonist is to ensure the protagonist is unable to achieve his goal or set of goals, and he does this by creating series of obstacles and conflict. But in the end he has to become a loser after the protagonist conquers him and achieve his goal.
The characteristics of the antagonist is usually cunning but intelligent, ad he must be formidable and hateful to the audience.
The mentor (guide).
The mentor, also known as the guide is usually the character who acts as a role model, guide or adviser to the protagonist. He is the character the protagonist must always look up to as a way, means or channel through whom he will be able to achieve his goals.
The role of this character is to provide wisdom, guidance and whatever support is needed to the protagonist.
The mentor should be a wise, knowledgeable, experienced and kind personaliity and very well advanced in age.
The sidekick (companion)
The sidekick is the character who accompanies and support the protagonist throughout the story.
For example, if you are writing a romance story, the lover boy who plays the hero in the story must have a close friend or ally who is always seen with the protagonist.
The role of this character is to physically support and assist the protagonist whenever it is necessary.
While creating this character you must ensure he is loyal and trustworthy to the protagonist.
The foil (contrast)
The foil is a character who helps the protagonist to discover their traits or characteristics.
The role of this character is somehow similar to the antagonist but differs in the sense that he only helps to highlight the protagonist traits and characteristics through the tension and conflict he creates on the sideline.
The foil’s characteristics is to oppose the protagonist, and he does this often times by joining forces with the antagonist. But sometimes this character operates away from the knowledge of the protagonist.
