* Foiling the protagonist: They highlight the protagonist's traits by contrasting with them. A kind minor character might make the protagonist's cruelty stand out more starkly, for instance.
* Advancing the plot: They might deliver crucial information, trigger key events, or act as obstacles for the protagonist to overcome. A seemingly insignificant messenger could bring news that alters the course of the story.
* Developing the setting: They can represent different aspects of the society or environment the story takes place in, showcasing its culture, values, and social dynamics. A shopkeeper, a beggar, or a village elder can all offer glimpses into a world beyond the protagonist's immediate circle.
* Providing comic relief: They can lighten the mood, offering moments of humor that break the tension and prevent the story from becoming overly serious or depressing.
* Adding depth to the protagonist's experiences: Interactions with minor characters can shape the protagonist's growth, revealing their vulnerabilities or strengths in different contexts. A chance encounter with a sympathetic stranger, for example, might offer the protagonist a moment of solace and reflection.
* Illustrating thematic concerns: They can embody certain ideas or beliefs relevant to the story's central themes, even if only implicitly. A character who consistently exhibits greed might serve to underscore the novel's critique of materialism.
* Creating a sense of realism: Minor characters populate the world of the story, making it feel more believable and less artificial. They add texture and vibrancy to the narrative by representing the everyday people who inhabit the protagonist's world.
In short, while minor characters don't drive the plot in the same way as major characters, they are essential building blocks of a compelling narrative. They add depth, complexity, and realism, contributing significantly to the overall impact and meaning of the work.