Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A sympathetic character is one whom readers can relate to or feel compassion for due to their struggles, flaws, or vulnerabilities. These characters evoke empathy from readers rather than pure dislike.
The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.
Redemption Arc: A narrative arc where a character starts off as unsympathetic but undergoes a transformation, leading to their eventual redemption or change.
Tragic Hero: A protagonist who possesses noble qualities but suffers from a tragic flaw that leads to their downfall.