Literary Term - Deuteragonist

 

Literary Term

Deuteragonist 

The term "deuteragonist" in literature refers to the second most important character in a narrative, after the protagonist. While not the main focus of the story, the deuteragonist typically plays a significant role in the plot's development, often serving as a close companion, rival, or supporter of the protagonist. The deuteragonist's actions and interactions with the protagonist contribute to the story's conflicts, themes, and character dynamics.

 

Functions of a Deuteragonist

 

Supporting the Protagonist:

The deuteragonist often provides emotional, moral, or practical support to the protagonist, assisting them in achieving their goals.

Example: In "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien, Samwise Gamgee serves as Frodo Baggins's loyal companion and supports him on his quest to destroy the One Ring.

 

Adding Depth to the Plot:

The deuteragonist's own goals, conflicts, and actions contribute to the complexity and depth of the narrative, enriching the story's development.

Example: In "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling, Hermione Granger plays a crucial role as Harry Potter's friend and ally, contributing her intelligence and skills to their adventures.

 

Providing Contrast or Conflict:

The deuteragonist may have contrasting characteristics or goals compared to the protagonist, leading to conflicts that drive the plot forward.

Example: In "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jay Gatsby is the protagonist whose ambitions clash with Tom Buchanan, the deuteragonist who represents old money and traditional values.

 

Highlighting Themes and Motifs:

Through interactions with the protagonist, the deuteragonist can help explore and reinforce key themes, motifs, or moral dilemmas of the story.

Example: In "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky, Raskolnikov is the protagonist grappling with ideas of morality and justice, while Porfiry Petrovich serves as the deuteragonist who challenges his beliefs through their intellectual exchanges.

 

Acting as a Foil:

The deuteragonist may act as a foil to the protagonist, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, or contrasting qualities.

Example: In "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet is the protagonist known for her wit and independence, while her sister Jane Bennet serves as a deuteragonist characterized by her gentleness and romantic nature.

 

Examples of Deuteragonists in Literature

 

"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain:

Huck Finn is the protagonist, while Jim, the runaway slave, serves as the deuteragonist whose journey with Huck explores themes of friendship, freedom, and morality.

 

"The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger:

Holden Caulfield is the protagonist, and his younger sister Phoebe Caulfield acts as the deuteragonist who provides emotional support and insight into Holden's character.

 

"The Odyssey" by Homer:

Odysseus is the protagonist, and Telemachus, his son, serves as the deuteragonist whose growth and adventures parallel Odysseus's journey back home.

 

"Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë:

Jane Eyre is the protagonist, and Edward Rochester acts as the deuteragonist whose complex relationship with Jane drives the novel's central conflicts and developments.

 

"Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo:

Jean Valjean is the protagonist, and Javert serves as the deuteragonist whose relentless pursuit of Valjean highlights themes of justice, mercy, and redemption.

 

The deuteragonist in literature plays a crucial role in supporting, contrasting, or challenging the protagonist, contributing to the narrative's complexity, themes, and character development. While not the central focus of the story, the deuteragonist's presence enriches the plot and enhances the reader's understanding of the protagonist's journey and the broader themes explored in the work.