6 Unforgettable Types of Antagonists

In storytelling, the antagonist is the main source of conflict for the protagonist. As a villain, nemesis or destructive force, the antagonist character plays the “bad guy” or obstacle to the protagonist (often called the main character). The antagonist plays a crucial role in creating the drama and conflict that move a good story forward.

One place to learn about protagonists, antagonists and character development is the hero’s journey. These narratives contain a range of antagonists and frame how they support the tale’s progression.

This post explores various types of antagonists, offering you, as a writer, insights to craft nuanced, compelling conflicts and develop believable villains. Many familiar books and movies feature the main types of antagonists, and you’ll see examples of several literary character types in this article.

1. The Classic Villain

A malevolent being, the classic villain sets out to oppose the protagonist. As the primary antagonist, their malicious intent toward the main character is the major conflict, and they might enlist others to support their cause.

The villain antagonist is often portrayed as simply evil, with no real reason for it. While this might work in highly simplistic stories, it lacks the depth and motivation that make the villain believable and interesting. Providing at least some backstory for the antagonist generally makes for better writing.

The traditional villain archetype is well-known in literature and film. Think of characters like the Joker in Batman, or Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter series. Both have significant backstories to explore how they became villain antagonists, but their main purpose is to stand, often violently, between the hero and his destiny.

2. The Authority Figure

Another “bad guy” is the problematic authority figure, who wields power and uses it to challenge or suppress the protagonist. The authority figure antagonist might be a major villain, though they could also be a less threatening obstacle, like an overprotective parent.

First, consider dictatorial leaders and corrupt officials in dystopian settings. Characters like Darth Vader in Star Wars or President Snow from The Hunger Games. Both in leadership positions, they abuse their power and stand in the way of the main characters and protagonists, not caring who or how many they hurt in the process.

Second, think of a less threatening antagonistic force. One example would be Rev. Shaw Moore in the movie Footloose. Driven by grief, he is overprotective of his teenage daughter and supports a ban on dancing.

The authority figure might also be a secondary antagonist, complicating the main conflict for the protagonist.

3. The Rival

Your main character might find a source of conflict in someone a bit closer to home. The rival antagonist generally wants something the protagonist is after, such as a reward, lover or position of power. This competition drives narrative tension.

For example, in the Harry Potter series, Draco Malfoy’s complex relationship with Harry centers on the fact that his goals for recognition clash with Harry’s fame. Another example is Derek Zoolander and Hansel in Zoolander. The two eventually become friends, but they’re initially competitors for the position of top male model.

A more complex rival antagonist is an internal conflict with oneself. In the Lord of the Rings, Gollum has an ongoing argument with a self he’s suppressed for ages–Smeagol, the being he was before finding the one ring. The balance of power shifts between Gollum and Smeagol throughout his time with the hobbits.

4. The Monster/Creature

Non-human antagonists present a range of challenges to your protagonist. They could be mythical beasts, human-made horrors or inanimate forces like outer space, inclement weather or the ocean.

The power of monsters, creatures and forces is their physical intimidation. Strength, weapons, claws, and frightening appearance make them literal obstacles facing the protagonist.

In good stories, monsters are more than just scary. They have thematic significance, representing dangerous things in the real world or even past trauma. The main character and those on their side change as they fight back, growing as individuals and uniting against the common foe.

An example of creature antagonists is the horde of orcs, goblins and Uruk-hai created by Sauron and Saruman in Lord of the Rings. As fighters with minimal concern for their own safety, they’re terrifying foes. The story also has a force of nature antagonist in the form of Mount Doom itself.

5. The Betrayer

When a character begins as an ally but evolves into an enemy through betrayal, they’re a betrayer antagonist. This kind of “bad guy” explores how a good character can make the wrong choice or take what appears to be an easier path.

Provide betrayer antagonists with a backstory to explain their motivations and behavior. This complexity reminds readers of the “gray” areas of human morality, and how easily people can be swayed to do something they know is wrong.

Betrayer antagonist examples include Iago in Othello by William Shakespeare and Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars. Iago goes from trusted friend to vengeful plotter, while Anakin turns away from his friend, Obi-Wan Kanobi, to the Sith.

In every classic example, the former friend alters the protagonist’s journey and impacts the reader’s trust.

6. The Misguided Antagonist

Some characters believe they’re doing the right thing and ultimately acting for the greater good. In the meantime, they function as antagonists, getting in the way of the main character and adding complexity to the narrative.

One misguided antagonist archetype is the anti-villain, who provides conflict for the protagonist but doesn’t exhibit typical villainous traits. The anti-hero might also show up as a main character without the usual heroic qualities, like honesty and courage. Both provide an ethical gray area that enriches the story.

For example, Severus Snape in Harry Potter is a relatively standard antagonist for most of the series. Along the way readers learn little about his insecurities and internal struggle. However (spoiler alert!), near the end, his character arc becomes far more heroic as readers discover that he was actually protecting Harry the entire time. Snape was a misunderstood character whose noble ends justified unethical means.

Perfect Your Storytelling Skills

In your short stories, novels and screenwriting, integrate different types of antagonists to deepen conflict and engage audiences. More than one “bad guy” can exist in the same story, allowing main characters and protagonists to encounter real-world complexity and growth opportunities.
To learn more about different types of villains, enhancing character development, worldbuilding and other storytelling elements, check out the classes from Skillshare. Explore how to write unforgettable characters who bring your work to life and leave readers wanting more.

Written By

Katie Mitchell

Katie lives in Michigan with her husband, kids and pets. She enjoys cooking, travel and live music.