Literature Terms

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Protagonist

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The main character in a story who drives the action.

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Antagonist

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The opponent who works against the main character. It can also be a force, concept, or situation that creates conflict for the main character.

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Dynamic character

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A character that changes in a dramatic way.

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Static character

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A character that remains the same throughout the story.

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Round character

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A character that is presented in a complex way.

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Flat character

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A character that is represented with just a single character trait.

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Direct characterization

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When an author states a character's traits.

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Indirect characterization

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When an author shows the character's personality through their actions, words, and other details.

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Conflict

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A struggle or problem; can either be internal (inside a character’s mind) or external (with an outside force).

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Character vs. Self

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When a character struggles with their own emotions, thoughts, beliefs, or decisions.