protagonist
UK: prəˈtæɡənɪst | US: proʊˈtæɡənɪst
n. the leading character or one of the major characters in a drama, movie, novel, or other fictional text
n. an active supporter or advocate of a cause, idea, or movement
The word protagonist originates from Greek theater, where prōtagōnistēs referred to the "first actor" in a drama (from prôtos + agōn). Over time, it evolved to denote the central character in any narrative or the primary advocate of a cause, reflecting the original idea of being the "first in a struggle or competition."
The protagonist of the novel undergoes a profound transformation.
She was a passionate protagonist for environmental reform.
In Greek tragedies, the protagonist often faces a moral dilemma.
The film’s protagonist struggles against societal expectations.
As the protagonist of the movement, he inspired many followers.