Instigator vs. Protagonist

Attribute	Instigator	Protagonist
Definition	A person who initiates or provokes a conflict or action	The main character or leading figure in a story or event
Role	Often seen as the troublemaker or catalyst for change	Usually the hero or central character driving the narrative
Characteristics	Can be manipulative, cunning, or disruptive	Typically portrayed as brave, determined, and morally upright
Impact	Causes conflict or stirs up trouble	Drives the story forward and overcomes obstacles

Definition

Instigator and protagonist are two terms often used in literature and storytelling to describe characters who play pivotal roles in driving the plot forward. An instigator is someone who initiates or provokes a particular action or event, often leading to conflict or change. On the other hand, a protagonist is the main character in a story, typically the one who faces challenges and drives the narrative towards a resolution.

Role in the Story

While both instigators and protagonists are central to the development of a story, their roles differ in significant ways. An instigator may not necessarily be the main character or hero of the story, but their actions set the events in motion and create tension or conflict that the protagonist must navigate. In contrast, the protagonist is the character whose journey the audience follows, and whose decisions and actions drive the plot towards its conclusion.

Motivation

One key difference between an instigator and a protagonist lies in their motivations. An instigator may act out of selfishness, revenge, or a desire to disrupt the status quo, often causing chaos or conflict in the story. In contrast, a protagonist is typically driven by more noble or relatable motivations, such as a quest for justice, love, or personal growth. The protagonist's actions are usually guided by a sense of purpose or a desire to achieve a specific goal.

Character Development

Another important distinction between an instigator and a protagonist is their character development throughout the story. While an instigator may remain static or unchanged, serving primarily as a catalyst for the events that unfold, a protagonist undergoes significant growth and transformation. The protagonist's journey often involves overcoming obstacles, facing inner demons, and evolving as a person, making them a more dynamic and complex character.

Impact on Other Characters

Both instigators and protagonists can have a profound impact on the other characters in a story, but in different ways. An instigator's actions may disrupt relationships, create conflict, or force other characters to confront difficult truths about themselves. In contrast, a protagonist's influence is often more positive, inspiring others to change, grow, or support them in their quest. The protagonist's journey can serve as a source of inspiration or motivation for the other characters in the story.

Resolution

Ultimately, the instigator and protagonist play crucial roles in shaping the outcome of a story. The instigator's actions may lead to chaos, destruction, or upheaval, forcing the protagonist to confront challenges and make difficult choices. The protagonist's journey, on the other hand, typically culminates in a resolution that brings closure to the narrative, whether through victory, redemption, or personal growth. Both characters contribute to the overall arc of the story, but in different ways.