Anti-hero

Definition

An anti-hero is a central character in a story who lacks conventional heroic qualities, such as morality, courage, or idealism, often embodying a more flawed or complex personality. These characters challenge traditional notions of heroism and instead present a more relatable and human experience, frequently representing societal disillusionment or personal struggle. The anti-hero's journey can reveal deeper truths about human nature and societal flaws, which is evident in the works of various playwrights and their complex characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. August Strindberg's works often featured anti-heroes who embodied psychological depth and social critique, challenging societal norms.
2. John Osborne's protagonist in 'Look Back in Anger,' Jimmy Porter, exemplifies the anti-hero with his aggressive demeanor and inner turmoil, reflecting post-war disillusionment.
3. The anti-hero's moral ambiguity allows audiences to engage with complex themes like alienation, frustration, and the search for identity.
4. The rise of the anti-hero is closely tied to modernist literature and theatre, reflecting societal changes and a departure from traditional narratives.
5. Anti-heroes can serve as catalysts for change in their stories, prompting audiences to question the nature of morality and heroism.

Review Questions

• How do Strindberg's characters illustrate the concept of the anti-hero in his major works?
  • Strindberg's characters often embody traits associated with the anti-hero, displaying psychological complexity and social discontent. His protagonists grapple with internal conflicts and societal pressures that reveal their flaws and struggles. This portrayal invites audiences to examine the darker aspects of human nature and the failures of societal ideals, setting the stage for a more nuanced understanding of heroism.
• In what ways does Jimmy Porter from 'Look Back in Anger' represent the characteristics of an anti-hero?
  • Jimmy Porter embodies the anti-hero through his volatile emotions, dissatisfaction with life, and inability to conform to societal expectations. His anger is a reaction to post-war disillusionment and personal alienation, allowing audiences to connect with his struggles on a deeper level. Instead of being a clear-cut hero, his character challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and themselves.
• Evaluate how the emergence of anti-heroes in modernist theatre reflects broader societal changes during that time period.
  • The emergence of anti-heroes in modernist theatre reflects significant societal changes such as disillusionment following wars, shifts in moral values, and a questioning of traditional authority. These characters mirror the complexities of contemporary life and resonate with audiences facing uncertainty. By presenting flawed protagonists who challenge conventional heroism, playwrights invite viewers to reflect on their own identities and ethical dilemmas, effectively capturing the essence of modern existence.

Related terms

Tragic Flaw: A characteristic or trait in a character that leads to their downfall, often seen in classic literature, including many anti-heroes.

Realism: A movement in literature and art that aims to depict everyday life and society accurately, often highlighting the complexities of human behavior.

Existentialism:

A philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, often reflected in the struggles of anti-heroes questioning their place in the world.