Protagonist
/prəˈtæɡ.ə.nɪst/noun
The main character in a drama, movie, novel, or other narrative work.
Did you know?The term 'protagonist' comes from ancient Greek theater, where it referred to the 'first actor'—the one who brought the plot to life, embodying both light and shadow.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
πρωταγωνιστής (prōtagōnistēs)
“The first competitor or actor, literally the 'first to play a role'.”
1st Century BCE
Latin
protagonista
“Borrowed from Greek, referring to the principal actor in a play.”
14th Century
Old French
protagoniste
“Adopted as a term for a leading character in narratives.”
Modern English
English
protagonist
“Emerges as a term for the main character, often embodying virtues and flaws.”
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