Final answer:
If a book describes a character who ruins the garden planted by the protagonist, the character causing the destruction is known as the antagonist. The antagonist directly opposes the protagonist, who is the main character generally embodying positive traits and goals. Knowing the roles of characters like the protagonist and antagonist is essential for analyzing literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a book tells about a teenager who plants a community garden and then describes a character who ruins that garden, the second character is a(n) antagonist. In literary terms, the antagonist is a character, or sometimes a situation, which stands in opposition to the protagonist, who is usually the main character. In this scenario, the teenager who planted the garden would likely be considered the protagonist, as their efforts to create the garden represent a positive action and they are central to the story’s progression.
In literature, each character has a specific role to play, which contributes to the overall narrative of the story. Protagonists are often characters who the audience is meant to sympathize with or root for. They face challenges and obstacles that they must overcome, and these are often presented by the actions of the antagonist. On the other hand, antagonists are the characters who provide the opposition, creating conflict that drives the narrative forward.
Aside from protagonists and antagonists, stories are also populated with secondary or minor characters. These characters can provide support for either the protagonist or the antagonist, or they may exist within the story without direct interaction with the main characters. Their inclusion can enrich the story, providing additional layers to the plot or giving depth to the story world.
While protagonists often embody heroic or positive traits, there is also the concept of the antihero. An antihero is a type of protagonist who lacks conventional heroic attributes. Readers might still find themselves empathizing with this character, even if they do not fit the typical hero mold.
Understanding the roles of characters such as protagonists and antagonists is crucial in analyzing literature, as these roles are fundamental in building the structure of a story. They create the conflicts and tensions necessary for a compelling plot. A well-developed antagonist can provide significant insight into the protagonist’s character and contribute profoundly to the theme and message of the story.