Every character in a novel serves a specific purpose.  For example, the main character (also called the protagonist) faces a problem or struggle (called the conflict) and either succeeds or fails in the struggle.  However, other characters, even the most minor ones, also perform specific functions.  If they didn’t they wouldn’t be in the story in the first place.  These other characters perform one or more of the following functions:

• a character may cause the problem the main character faces.  If this is his or her main function, the character is known as the antagonist, OR...
• a character might help the main character overcome the problem.

• A character might give this information directly by saying things about the conflict, OR
• a character might give this information indirectly by interacting with others – for example, the reader will often form impressions and opinions about the main character based on how the main character interacts with other characters in the story.

• A character may say or do humorous things to amuse the reader and keep a serious story from being too grim.

Challenge #1 (A “during reading” activity)
As you read your novel , keep track of the characters whom the protagonist   encounters, making a note of when each character first appears (or is mentioned) and in what way this character is connected to him or her.

Challenge #2 (an “after reading” activity)
Working with a partner or two, decide on the function each of these characters performs, referring to specific scenes in the novel that illustrate that function.  Be prepared to share your ideas with the class.