What is the definition of a protagonist?

The definition of a protagonist refers to the main character in a story, often the individual with whom the audience is meant to empathize or follow throughout the narrative. This character usually faces challenges or conflicts that drive the plot forward. The protagonist is central to the theme and often undergoes significant development or change by the end of the story, providing depth to the narrative and allowing readers to explore various emotional and moral dilemmas through their journey.

In contrast, characters that oppose the protagonist, those labeled as antagonists, serve to create conflict but do not hold the same central position in the narrative. Similarly, minor characters contribute to the story but lack the primary focus that the protagonist maintains. Thus, identifying the protagonist involves recognizing the character whose thoughts, struggles, and experiences lie at the heart of the story's unfolding events, making them pivotal to the overall narrative structure.