Guiding Your Readers to Root for a Bad Protagonist: Techniques and Examples

Writing a novel where your protagonist is a morally ambiguous or even outright bad person can be a challenging endeavor. As an aspiring or established author, you might find it difficult to make the reader root for your main character, despite their questionable nature. However, it is entirely possible to craft a protagonist that resonates with readers and makes them emotionally invested, even if this character is not traditionally seen as the 'good guy.'

What Made Your Protagonist a Bad Person?

The complexity of a bad protagonist often lies in their backstory and development. Understanding the influences and events that shaped your character can help readers see why they act as they do. For instance, a character might have grown up in an abusive home, leading to a violent or manipulative personality. Their actions might be seen as self-preservation or survival, even if they are morally questionable. By providing context, you can humanize your character and make their journey more relatable.

Bad and Good: A Dual Perspective

Both the author's perspective and the reader's perception of 'bad' and 'good' can influence the reader's emotions. In literature, the line between moral and immoral is often blurred. What makes a character 'bad' might be different from the reader's subjective viewpoint. For example, a character might be seen as a villain by the main protagonist but as a beloved family member by the reader. This duality makes the story more engaging and allows for a deeper emotional connection between the reader and the character.

Why Do You Want the Reader to Root for the Protagonist?

The ultimate goal is often to foster a layered narrative that forces readers to question their own beliefs and values. By rooting for a morally complex character, readers are encouraged to empathize with their antagonist, which can lead to a more profound understanding of the human condition. This type of writing can also serve to explore ethical questions and social issues within the story, adding depth and meaning to the narrative.

Entertaining and Sympathetic: Making an Evil Protagonist Attractive

One of the most effective strategies to make a bad protagonist likable or at least engaging is to give them qualities that resonate with readers. A charismatic and entertaining character like the vampire Lestat from Anne Rice's series can charm the audience despite their villainy. Lestat's mischievous charm and lack of malice towards certain individuals make him a memorable and relatable figure. Similarly, the anti-hero protagonist Mad Max, portrayed in the eponymous film series, endures immense hardship to survive, which can endear him to the audience.

Strategies from Prolific Literature and Television

Another approach is to craft a character who is both intimidating and relatable. Characters like Negan from The Walking Dead or Karsa Orlong from The Malazan Book of the Fallen are a mix of ruthless and complex. Negan, a controversial antihero, initially embodies the characteristics of a ruthless antagonist. Yet, throughout the series, his motivations, actions, and emotional growth make him more than just an enemy. He evolves from instigator to potential ally, showcasing the complexity of his character.

Case Study: Villanelle from Killing Eve

Villanelle from Killing Eve is a prime example of a flawed but relatable protagonist. Known for her social awkwardness, Villanelle is a compelling figure who lacks empathy but is dexterous in her criminal activities. Her brilliance, elegance, and nonchalant attitude towards violence make her a captivating character. While she is a ruthless killer, her calculated precision and witty banter often overshadow her dark actions, leading viewers to admire her even as they fear her. The character's transformation from a mere sidekick to a central protagonist further cements her appeal.

Ultimately, making a bad protagonist appeal to readers involves balancing their flaws and strengths, providing depth to their backstory, and creating engaging narratives that encourage empathy and understanding. By doing so, you can create a memorable and compelling character that leaves a lasting impact on your audience.