Here's a breakdown:
* Antagonist: The character (or force) who opposes the protagonist (the main character) and creates conflict in the story. They often have motivations that directly oppose the protagonist's goals.
* Protagonist: The main character of the story, often the one we root for and whose journey we follow.
The antagonist doesn't necessarily have to be a person. It could be:
* Nature: A storm, a disease, or a natural disaster.
* Society: Laws, rules, or social norms that the protagonist struggles against.
* Internal Conflict: The protagonist's own flaws, doubts, or fears.
The relationship between the protagonist and antagonist drives the plot and creates tension, making the story exciting and engaging.