How can "antagonist" be defined?

The term "antagonist" is defined as a character that creates conflict for the protagonist. In a narrative, the protagonist is usually the main character around whom the story revolves, often facing various challenges and obstacles. The antagonist plays a critical role by embodying those challenges, whether they are internal struggles, opposing values, or direct opposition to the protagonist's goals.

The function of the antagonist is to drive the plot and develop the themes of the story by introducing tension and conflict, which can lead to character growth and resolution. This dynamic between the protagonist and antagonist is essential for engaging storytelling, as it highlights the protagonist's journey and the stakes of their decisions.

Other definitions, such as supporting characters or neutral characters, do not align with the classic role of the antagonist. These roles involve different functions that do not contribute to the central conflict in the way an antagonist does.