Question

What is a protagonist in literature and why is it so important?

Answer 1

According to Merriam-Webster, a protagonist is, “the principal character in a literary work (such as a drama or story),” and, “the leading actor or principal character in a television show, movie, book, etc.”

(An antagonist according to Merriam-Webster is, “one that contends with or opposes another : ADVERSARY, OPPONENT.”)

A protagonist is important because they’re usually the characters that help move the story forward.