Propp's Seven Character Types

In the Propp structure, There are seven main character types

Hero (Protagonist)

The central Protagonist of the narrative who drives it forward and has some kind of quest or mission. Traditionally Male but can be Female

Villain (Antagonist)

Seeks Riches and power, trys to stop the Hero to succeed in their Quest/Mission and is the biggest threat. often wants the

Helper

Accompanies the hero for some or most of the quest and can sometimes help, but cannot by themselves complete the Quest

Blocker

Tries to prevent the hero completing at least part of the quest.

Dispatcher

Sends the hero on a journey/quest.

Prize (Heroine)

Acts as a reward for the hero succeeding in the quest. in older, more stereotypical narratives the heroine is a passive princess and female.

Mentor

Gives the hero important information or equipment to help him/her in the quest.

Here are examples of character types using the film saga Star Wars

Luke Skywalker (Hero)

Darth Vader (Villain)


Han Solo (Helper)


Obi-Wan (Mentor and Dispatcher)

Boba Fett (Blocker)

Princess Leia (Prize)

• False Protagonist In some films the Antagonist can act like a Protagonist for there own reasons, Here is a example of this from the movie Incredibles, The Main Antagonist Syndrome is acting like a super hero