Confidant

Definition

A confidant is a supporting character who plays a crucial role in the development of the protagonist by providing emotional support, advice, or companionship. This character often serves as a sounding board for the main character's thoughts and feelings, allowing for deeper exploration of the protagonist's inner struggles and motivations. The presence of a confidant can highlight the main character's conflicts, helping to reveal their personality and drive the narrative forward.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Confidants often provide critical insights or reflections that help the main character clarify their thoughts or decisions.
2. These characters can come in various forms, such as friends, family members, mentors, or even pets, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.
3. The relationship between a confidant and the protagonist can evolve throughout the narrative, revealing layers of trust and vulnerability.
4. Confidants may also introduce subplots or themes that complement the main storyline, enriching the overall narrative experience.
5. In many plays, a confidant can serve as comic relief, balancing heavier themes by providing lighter moments through their interactions with the protagonist.

Review Questions

• How does a confidant contribute to the development of the protagonist in a story?
  • A confidant contributes to the development of the protagonist by serving as an emotional anchor and sounding board. They allow the main character to express their thoughts and feelings openly, which can lead to significant self-discovery and growth. Through dialogues and interactions with the confidant, the protagonist's internal conflicts become clearer, enhancing audience understanding of their motivations and decisions.
• Discuss how a confidant can enhance subplots within a narrative.
  • A confidant can enhance subplots by introducing additional layers of conflict or themes that parallel those faced by the protagonist. Their interactions may reveal personal challenges or backstories that connect to the main plot, allowing for richer storytelling. By engaging with subplots alongside the protagonist, a confidant deepens the audience's investment in both characters' journeys and creates a more intricate narrative tapestry.
• Evaluate the role of a confidant in shaping audience perception of the protagonist’s journey.
  • The role of a confidant is essential in shaping audience perception of the protagonist's journey because they provide critical insights into the main character's emotional landscape. By expressing doubts or offering encouragement, they help highlight the protagonist's strengths and weaknesses. The dynamic between them fosters empathy from the audience as they witness not just the external conflicts but also the internal struggles faced by the protagonist. This relationship ultimately enriches the viewer's understanding of what drives the main character forward in their quest.

Related terms

Foil: A character that contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, to highlight particular qualities and traits.

Antagonist: A character who opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and tension in the story.

Ally:

A supportive character who assists the protagonist in achieving their goals and navigating challenges throughout the narrative.