Protagonists, antagonists, character relationships, and conflict

In preparing for the AP English Language and Composition exam, understanding the dynamics between protagonists, antagonists, character relationships, and conflict is essential for effective argumentative writing and argumentative speech. By analyzing how authors use rhetorical sentences and cumulative sentences to develop these elements, students can enhance their interpretative skills. This knowledge allows for the construction of compelling literary arguments, showcasing an ability to dissect the intricate relationships and conflicts that drive narratives and reveal deeper themes within the text.

Learning Objectives

In studying protagonists, antagonists, character relationships, and conflict for the AP English Language and Composition exam, students will learn to construct cumulative sentences that add depth and complexity to their analyses. They will develop the skills to write both explanatory essays that clarify the roles of these elements and expository essays that provide structured, detailed arguments. By incorporating rhetorical sentences, students will enhance the persuasiveness of their writing. Crafting a final thesis statement will hone their ability to present clear, focused arguments, while engaging in critical thinking will enable them to deeply analyze character dynamics and conflicts, connecting them to broader themes and motifs within the text.

Key Concepts and Terms

1. Protagonist: The main character in a story, often considered the hero or central figure who drives the plot forward. The protagonist faces the central conflict and undergoes significant development.
2. Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict. The antagonist is not necessarily evil but serves as an obstacle to the protagonist’s goals.
3. Character Relationships: The interactions and dynamics between characters, which can reveal motivations, themes, and contribute to the development of the plot.
4. Conflict: The central struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative. Conflict can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or forces).

Protagonists

• Role: The protagonist is typically the character with whom the audience is meant to identify. Their journey or struggle forms the backbone of the narrative.
• Examples:
  • Harry Potter in J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series: A young wizard who battles against the dark forces of Voldemort.
  • Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”: A witty and intelligent woman who navigates societal expectations and personal relationships.

Antagonists

• Role: The antagonist provides opposition to the protagonist, creating tension and driving the conflict.
• Examples:
  • Voldemort in “Harry Potter”: A dark wizard intent on conquering the wizarding world and destroying Harry.
  • Mr. Darcy (initially) in “Pride and Prejudice”: His perceived arrogance and interference in Elizabeth’s life create conflict, though he later becomes a more complex character.

Character Relationships

• Importance: Relationships between characters can reveal key themes, character motivations, and contribute to the plot’s progression.
• Types:
  • Friendships: Often provide support to the protagonist (e.g., Ron and Hermione in “Harry Potter”).
  • Romantic Relationships: Can drive the plot and reveal deeper aspects of characters (e.g., Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in “Pride and Prejudice”).
  • Family Relationships: Often foundational to a character’s development and conflicts (e.g., Scout and Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”).

Conflict

• Internal Conflict: A psychological struggle within the protagonist, often involving themes of identity, morality, or decision-making.
  • Example: Hamlet’s indecision and inner turmoil in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”
• External Conflict: A struggle between the protagonist and an outside force, such as another character, society, or nature.
  • Example: The struggle between Ralph and Jack in William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” representing civilization versus savagery.

Analyzing Protagonists, Antagonists, Character Relationships, and Conflict

1. Identify and Describe the Protagonist and Antagonist:
   • Protagonist: Who is the main character? What are their goals and motivations?
   • Antagonist: Who or what opposes the protagonist? What is their motivation?
2. Examine Character Relationships:
   • How do the protagonist and antagonist interact?
   • What other relationships influence the protagonist’s journey?
   • How do these relationships affect the plot and themes?
3. Analyze the Conflict:
   • What is the central conflict? Is it internal, external, or both?
   • How does the conflict drive the plot and influence the characters?
   • What resolution, if any, is achieved by the end of the story?

Examples

Example 1: “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

• Protagonist: Jay Gatsby
  • Goals: To reunite with Daisy Buchanan and achieve the American Dream.
  • Internal Conflict: Gatsby’s struggle with his past and identity.
• Antagonist: Tom Buchanan
  • Opposition: Tom’s relationship with Daisy and his social power.
• Character Relationships: Gatsby and Daisy’s romantic past; Gatsby’s friendship with Nick Carraway; Tom and Daisy’s marriage.
• Conflict: The conflict between Gatsby’s idealism and the reality of social stratification and moral decay.

Example 2: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

• Protagonist: Scout Finch
  • Goals: To understand the complexities of morality and human nature.
  • Internal Conflict: Scout’s struggle to reconcile her father’s values with the prejudices of her community.
• Antagonist: Bob Ewell
  • Opposition: Ewell’s racism and desire for revenge against Atticus Finch.
• Character Relationships: Scout’s relationship with her father, Atticus; her friendship with Dill; her evolving understanding of Boo Radley.
• Conflict: The external conflict of racism and injustice in the trial of Tom Robinson; Scout’s internal conflict in understanding these societal issues.