JAMB 2022 Literature in English · Question 7

A character that is always against the interest of the protagonist is

Options

  1. A.hero
  2. B.opposition
  3. C.villain
  4. D.heroine

Answer: C. villain

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the term describing a character who is always against the interest of the protagonist. The protagonist is the main character, usually the hero or heroine, around whom the story revolves.

Step 2: Explain the concept In literature, the character who works against the protagonist is called the antagonist. An antagonist is often a villain, a character whose actions, motives, or values clash with those of the protagonist and create the central conflict.

Let's look at each option:

  • A. Hero: This is the protagonist (a male main character), so it is on the protagonist's side.
  • B. Opposition: This is a general word for resistance or a opposing group. It is not a standard literary term for a type of character.
  • C. Villain: This is the character whose role is to oppose the hero or protagonist and work against their interests.
  • D. Heroine: This is the female protagonist, so it is not against the protagonist.

Step 3: Identify the answer The standard literary term closest to "a character always against the protagonist" among the options is villain.

A small note: strictly speaking, the technical word is "antagonist," which isn't among the options. An antagonist is not always a villain (it could be a rival or even a force of nature), but of the options given, "villain" is the best fit.

Step 4: Exam tip Remember the pairing:

  • Protagonist = hero/heroine (the main character)
  • Antagonist = villain (the one who opposes)

When a question describes a character who works against the main character, think "antagonist", then pick "villain" if that's the closest option.

Final answer: C

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