What does an antagonist often do?

An antagonist typically creates obstacles for the protagonist, which is a central element of conflict in a narrative. The antagonist's actions and motivations often directly oppose those of the protagonist, creating tension and driving the plot forward. By presenting challenges and opposition, the antagonist forces the protagonist to confront difficulties that may lead to character development and resolution of the story. This interplay between the antagonist and protagonist is crucial for building suspense and engaging the audience, ultimately shaping the overall narrative arc.

In contrast, cooperation with the protagonist, enhancing the theme without conflict, or providing narration are roles not typically associated with an antagonist. While there may be instances of complex moral ambiguity where characters share certain traits, the primary function of an antagonist is to impede or challenge the main character’s goals.