Antihero

An antihero is a protagonist in a story who lacks conventional heroic qualities, such as courage, idealism, and morality. They often exhibit flaws, weaknesses, and questionable behavior, blurring the lines between good and evil. Unlike traditional heroes, they might be selfish, cynical, or morally ambiguous, driven by self-interest or internal conflicts. Their actions, while sometimes leading to positive outcomes, are rarely motivated by altruism or a strong moral compass. They may even be the 'villain' of another story. The antihero’s complexity allows for exploration of relatable themes, challenging audience perceptions of right and wrong and exploring the grey areas of human nature.

Antihero meaning with examples

• Walter White, the protagonist of 'Breaking Bad', initially a meek chemistry teacher, transforms into a ruthless drug lord. His actions, though aimed at providing for his family, involve violence, deception, and manipulation. The audience witnesses his moral descent, constantly questioning his motivations and sympathizing despite his increasingly villainous behavior. This makes him a complex antihero.
• Lisbeth Salander, in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo', is a socially awkward, but brilliant hacker, who dispenses her own form of justice against those who hurt her. Her past trauma and unconventional methods make her a compelling antihero. Despite her brilliance, she is often confrontational and difficult to connect with, but the audience still sees her as the good guy.
• Deadpool, a mercenary with regenerative powers, is known for his sarcastic humor and graphic violence. He consistently breaks the fourth wall, acknowledging his fictional status. While he sometimes acts heroically, his motivation is primarily self-serving, making him a comedic and unconventional antihero who defies genre conventions.
• Tyrion Lannister from 'Game of Thrones' uses wit, intelligence, and a cunning nature to navigate a brutal political landscape. His complex relationship with morality and his willingness to do what is necessary for survival make him a key example of an antihero who can have the audience rooting for him at times and despising him at others.