Villain
Literary term · say it VIL-un
A villain is a character whose cruel or harmful choices cause serious trouble or suffering in a story. Often opposed to the main character, a villain may act through force, deception, or the misuse of power.
Ways a villain appears
The schemer
This villain deceives people and turns them against one another to gain an advantage or cause harm.
In Othello, Iago plants Desdemona's handkerchief in Cassio's room and uses it to feed Othello's jealousy.
In Othello by William Shakespeare
The cruel ruler
This villain uses authority to control others and punish anyone who threatens that control.
In Macbeth, Macbeth orders the murder of Macduff's wife and children after Macduff has fled to England.
In Macbeth by William Shakespeare
The threatening predator
This villain treats other people as prey, placing their safety and freedom in danger.
In Dracula, Jonathan Harker discovers that the Count is keeping him prisoner in his castle.
In Dracula by Bram Stoker
How to spot a villain
- Look for choices that deliberately harm or exploit others.
- Notice who uses fear, lies, or power to get their way.
- Trace how that character's actions create danger or conflict.
What is the difference between a villain and an antagonist?
A villain is defined by harmful conduct, while an antagonist is defined by opposition to the protagonist. An antagonist may be decent, mistaken, or simply pursuing a different goal. A villain often fills that opposing role, but need not do so.
Can a villain be the main character?
Yes, a villain can be the main character, or protagonist, of a story. Protagonist describes a character's central place in the plot, not their goodness. In Macbeth, Macbeth remains central even as he commits murder and rules through fear.
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