Who or what is the antagonist of the story?

Answer 1

The antagonist is the character who, consciously or unconsciously, plays a central role in opposing the main character's goals. In many cases, it's the villain. However, in works where the main character is evil (e.g. Poe's "Tell Tale Heart"), the antagonist might be the good guy.

So, to figure out who the antagonist is, ask, "Who is the main character?" and then "Who is the main character's opponent or foe? Who is preventing the main character from doing what he/she wants to?"

The antagonist is important because conflict fuels most plots.

Answer 2

No, the antagonist is whatever opposes the protagonist and keeps him or her from their goals. It can be an inanimate object such as the environment, a physical limitation of the character, or even the character's own mind and emotions.

Answer 3

The antagonist is the character who fights/disagrees with the main character (protagonist)...

Answer 4

Person who makes things challenging for the protagonist

Answer 5

You look for whoever or whatever is trying to keep the hero from reaching his or her goals.