Using Contagonists to Increase Story Tension by Emily B. Wheeler #storymakers class notes

As writers and readers, we know what the differences between protagonists (the main character and their goal drives the story) and antagonists (the person or force opposed to the main character). Have you heard of a contagonist? Let's learn about it together through movies and books! 

Contagonist 

• is an archetype that represents temptation. 
• is the opposite of a guardian or helping figure. 
• adds many dimensions to a story
• increases tension
• can emphasize the theme
• story runs parallel to/intersects with the protag, but their goal is different
• may function as an obstacle, cautionary tale, love interest/triangle, red herring
• Stands on her own side and has her own goals
• should represent or offer temptation or distraction 

Star Wars

Protag 

    Luke is battling for the future of the Galaxy

Antag 

    Emperor Palpatine is battling for the future of the Galaxy

Contag ~

    Darth Vader (failed hero) wants to maintain control 

Role in story:

        Temptation ~ Invites Luke to the Dark Side

        Cautionary Tale ~ Shows dangers of giving into passions

        (Luke has to defeat Palpatine, NOT Darth)

Harry Potter

Protag

    Harry Potter wants to restore order to the wizarding world

    Theme ~ Extended and surrogate family

Antag

    Voldemort wants to restore order to wizarding world

    

Contag

    Draco wants power and influence

    Parallel to HP has great influence at Hogwarts and has a lot of potential

Role in story:

    Obstacle ~Shows what HP could be if he choose to be petty

Contag

    Snape wants to belong and admired

    Both struggling with background of neglect and rejection

    Want to find a home

    (Snape presents a gray area)

Role in story:

    Red Herring (so true!!!)

    Challenges the protags understanding of himself and what makes a hero

Pride & Prejudice

Protag 

    Lizzie wants a respectable marriage

Antag

    Lady Catherine wants no marriage

    Mrs. Bennett forces marriage

    Wickham wants to marry for money

Contag

    Mr. Collins wants Lady Catherine's approval

    He wants a respectable marriage

Role in the story:

    Cautionary tale ~ about marrying to please others

Contag

    Lydia wants to follow her passions

    She wants love

Role in story:

    Cautionary tale ~ about giving in to passions

Contag

    Darcy wants to maintain respectability and pride

Role in story: 

    Love interest ~ changed by protag and avoids unhappy ending