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Villain Protagonists are central characters of films, TV shows or literature that exhibit traits of a stereotypical villain.[1] These are similar to antihero characters, who hold individual moral values which create a more complex character. Villain protagonists also stem from sympathetic villains, however the differentiating factor is that the villains who are the protagonist in their storylines do not show the need or characteristics for sympathy, as the audience/ readers decide for themselves as their storyline is explored further.
Etymology[edit]
The word ‘villain’ derives from the Medieval Latin word ‘villanus’, meaning ‘a person of unclouth mind and manners’. Connotations linked to the word worsened as Middle English was introduced, finalising the definition as ‘a deliberate scoundrel or criminal’. Old French and Anglo-French languages introduced the spelling ‘vilain’, before finally transforming to ‘villain’, and is defined as ‘a man (or woman) naturally disposed to base or criminal actions, or deeply involved in the commission of disgraceful crimes’ according to the Online English Dictionary.[2]
In Classical Literature[edit]
Satan, being the infamous evil Satan, holds the villain status for attempting to bring the downfall of man in Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost, but holds complexity in his character for his pride, generosity, loyalty, and self-sacrifice, as well as other heroic characteristics that make the readers of Paradise Lost feel almost sympathetic, or possibly identify with him. However, Satan continues to devote himself to evil and bring on the downfall of mankind, convincing Eve to eat the forbidden fruit in book IX. What pulls Satan away from the whole-hearted ‘villain’ label is the emotional advantage and complexity that he has as Milton continues expanding his character, as he holds certain attributes which are worthy of epic heroes, and which make him an almost tragic protagonist.[3]
In Folk and Fairy tales[edit]
As with Maleficent, the evil fairy in the adapted ‘Sleeping Beauty’ film, Maleficent, she is a character that has been villainised from the earliest versions of the fairy tale. This being important and influential as the film Maleficent explores the villains past and explains to audiences why the character is so ‘evil’. The film explores the fact that villains haven’t always been villains and that even though Maleficent is selfish at times and portrays stereotypical ‘villain’ behaviour, she includes her own morality and distinguishes right from wrong; this emphasises that villain protagonists who turn to their inner morality and values to make a decision[4] in their films makes them possess a complex narrative. In turn, there I an inability to simply label Maleficent as a villain or a hero.
List of Villain Protagonists in Fiction[edit]
Notes[edit]
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