Hero or Villain

When you study a text for English it is best to characterise your players. Are they good or evil? Are they a hero or villain or possibly a side-kick? Do they battle evil doers or are they sinister and wicked?


Words to Describe a Hero
Not all heroes are the model of society or behave well. But they do often have certain characteristics in common. If a character has these then they might be considered a 'hero' in the story and an important character throughout the text.

For some students these words will be new. To complete the lesson make sure the definitions of the words are looked up in a dictionary. This is not a complete list, there are many other words to describe heroes. Find as many as you can.

Dignified

Dexterous

Principled

Sensible

Debonair

Graceful

Ingenious

Tactful

Respectable

Honest

Trustworthy

Loyal

Rational



Words to Describe a Villain
Not all villains are evil or monstrous. Some appear to be genuine and even lovable. Perhaps they are a dynamic villain and end up doing the right thing by the end of the story. But often they have certain characteristics in common. If a character has these then they might be considered a 'villain' in the story and an important character throughout the text.

For some students these words will be new. To complete the lesson make sure the definitions of the words are looked up in a dictionary. This is not a complete list, there are many other words to describe heroes. Find as many as you can.

Antagonistic

Decrepit

Hideous

Vulgar

Lumbering

Puerile

Awkward

Irrational

Unkempt

Corrupt

Odious

Evil

Brusque


The Side-Kick
In a moral tale a side-kick's character often changes within the story (dynamic). They may change sides from evil to good or help decide the fate of the 'hero' or 'villain' by their actions. They have certain characteristics in common. These characters act as mirrors for the main players and the themes within the text.

Weak appearance

Loyal

Subservient

Cunning

Intelligent

Dignified

Tactful

It is important when studying a text to analyse the roles and characters within the story. It guides the reader to the larger issues, themes and symbols used within the text.