The Hero The Anti -Hero

Traditionally in literature a hero is a character who possesses a strong moral fiber. This is a character that seems to always do to right thing, no matter what the situation.

The Hero A hero has a strong conviction, is dynamic, and/or has a certain magnetism that draws the reader to him/her. A hero does not necessarily complete their journey on their own, but they are the central character in the story.

The Tragic Hero A tragic hero is often used in Shakespearean literature. This model of a hero may not always be a “good guy”. The tragic hero has made its way into more contemporary literature because audiences can relate to them. A tragic hero is often flawed.

The Anti -Hero The Anti-Hero is a flawed hero, much like a tragic hero. Like a tragic hero an anti-hero has some sort of character flaw that often hinders their ability to be a hero.

The Anti -Hero Though an Anti-Hero may not do the right thing all the time, a reader is drawn to the Anti-Hero. Unlike a tragic hero the Anti-Hero will not always die.

The Anti -Hero The concept of an Anti-Hero is often used in darker literature.

The Anti -Hero The Anti-Hero is being used more in modern literature as authors try to portray villains as complex characters

The Anti -Hero An Anti-Hero relates to a reader because the Anti-Hero displays more humanity that a regular Hero.

The Anti -Hero Instead of a flawed tragic hero, an Anti-Hero may try to do what is right by using questionable means.

Anti -Hero Traits Anti-Heroes can be obnoxious. Anti-Heroes can be pitiful. Anti-Heroes can be awkward. Anti-Heroes can be passive.

Types of Anti -Hero Some Anti-Heroes may be unable to commit to traditional values of society. This type of Anti-Hero distrusts conventional society.

Types of Anti -Hero Another type of Anti-Hero cannot “get a break” in life. He/she will move from one disappointment to another, their efforts always ending in failure.