Love to hate him OR hate to love him? The Anti-Hero Love to hate him OR hate to love him?

What is an anti-hero? An anti-hero is a protagonist who typically lacks the traditional traits and qualities of a hero, such as trustworthiness, courage, and honesty. Unorthodox in actions— acts contrary to society’s standards.

Qualities: Will have the reader’s sympathy—although this is sometimes difficult for us! Is imperfect/ has imperfections Has inner demons– we learn about these during the course of the story Is often a screw-up, outsider, or loner

Qualities: Rebels/ struggles with good and bad Riddled with paradoxical traits– ex: is a loner, but also seeks friendship Often will voluntarily help the innocent/ weak

And the “bad”…literally: They… aren’t role models are selfish are motivated by self interest or self preservation often make bad choices because it’s easier will embody bad behaviors when “wronged” will show little remorse for bad behavior

Anti-Hero vs. Traditional Hero Common traits: Both are protagonists whose actions drive the story Neither is perfect…even the traditional hero will have a flaw You will sympathize with both

Differences: The anti-hero : Has no moral code Is ordinary/ realistic Is rarely successful Battles are primarily within HIMSELF Is usually “bad”