What do they have in common?? Batman Holden Caulfield Tyler Durden Artemis Fowl Gollum Lestat Macbeth Scarlett O’Hara Severus Snape Han Solo Juno Jack Sparrow James “Sawyer” Gregory House Ben Linus Nathan Petrelli Homer Simpson

antihero

Definition Protagonist who lacks the attributes of a heroic figure Acts according to his/her own moral code and motivations

Definition May not be looking out for the greater good (much more interested in his/her own self) May accomplish feats of a hero, but often this is a “side effect” and not the antihero’s main goal

Why antiheros? Show us the greyness of humanity, and so are often realistic They are often complex and mysterious, making them interesting characters They can work with or against hero and/or villains, making for interesting alliances and plot lines

Questions to ask What is the antihero‘s motivation? What does the antihero value, or not value? Should the antihero accomplish his or her goal? If he or she does, should they be lauded for it? Should we emulate the antihero‘s actions? What can we learn from the antihero‘s trials and triumphs?