principal character
Story's central person
The principal character is the central figure in a story, film, play, or other narrative—the one whose journey or conflict drives the plot.
In a novel, this is the protagonist; in a play, the lead role.
She auditioned for the principal character but was cast as the villain instead.
- antiheroMorally ambiguous main character
- tragic heroCharacter whose flaw causes ruin
- protagonistStory's central figure
- leading rolePrincipal character's part
- backstoryCharacter's past narrative
archetype · hero's journey · icon · motivation · inner conflict · gaze · arc · flaws · gesture · dialogue · personality · relatability · representation · stage · legacy · voice · mask · conflict
principal characterextra
Additional, beyond necessary
background character · supporting character · minor character · walk-on · bit player
principal charactersupporting role
Minor character in production
sidekick · foil · comic relief · love interest · henchman
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