Well, courage is a big factor. Take Harry Potter for example. He had the courage to face Voldemort even when he was just a kid. He knew the danger but still stepped up. Another thing is self - sacrifice. Jean Valjean in 'Les Misérables' sacrificed his own freedom and safety for the well - being of others. That's what makes a hero great in fiction.
An anti - hero being the best can be due to their ability to change the narrative. Take Tyler Durden from 'Fight Club'. He challenges the consumerist society in a very extreme way. He starts as an idea in the narrator's head and then becomes a real force that shakes up the world within the story. His actions are violent and unethical, but he forces the other characters and the readers to re - evaluate the world they live in.
Often, it's their internal conflict that defines them as a fallen hero. Take Macbeth from Shakespeare's play. He was a nobleman, but his ambition, spurred on by the witches' prophecies, led him to commit heinous crimes. His internal struggle between his conscience and his desires made his character complex and his fall a great study in human nature. So the presence of internal moral and psychological battles can make a character a fallen hero.
A great heroine in fiction often has strong character traits like courage. For example, Wonder Woman in DC Comics fearlessly enters battles. She also has a sense of justice, which drives her actions. Another aspect is intelligence. Characters like Lisbeth Salander in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' use their smarts to solve complex problems.
A great villain in fiction often has a complex backstory. For example, Magneto from the X - Men series. He was a Holocaust survivor, which shaped his views on mutants and humans. His experiences led him to believe that mutants should be the dominant species, which is a more nuanced view compared to just pure evil. This backstory makes him a more three - dimensional and interesting villain.
Well, in fiction, a great teacher often has unique knowledge. For example, Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' has vast knowledge of Middle - earth's history, magic, and different races. This knowledge allows him to guide Frodo and the Fellowship on their dangerous journey. He imparts wisdom not just through words but also by his actions.
A great fictional author has the ability to create vivid characters. For example, Tolkien created characters like Frodo and Gandalf in 'The Lord of the Rings' that are so well - developed that they seem like real people with their own motives, desires, and flaws.
Well, for starters, extraordinary skill and technique. A great swordsman in fiction can perform complex maneuvers with ease. For example, Zatoichi, the blind swordsman. Despite his blindness, his sword skills are so refined that he can defeat multiple opponents effortlessly. He has a sixth sense about his surroundings and uses it to his advantage in combat.
One important thing is their uniqueness. Doctor Strange in the Marvel universe has his unique way of using magic to manipulate time and space. Also, the influence they have on the story world is crucial. Merlin in Arthurian legends has a huge influence on the kingdom of Camelot. Their moral stance can also contribute. Glinda the Good Witch from 'The Wizard of Oz' is considered one of the best because she uses her magic for good.
One key factor is their ability to handle danger. Fictional cowboys like John Wayne's characters were fearless in the face of outlaws and difficult situations. They also have a sense of adventure. Think of characters like Roy Rogers who were always exploring new places and getting into exciting escapades. Additionally, their relationships with others, such as their loyalty to friends and the community, make them stand out. For instance, Woody in 'Toy Story' was extremely loyal to his fellow toys.
Well, for me, a great villain in fiction has to be really intimidating. Like, they should make the hero or the characters around them scared just by being there. For example, Hannibal Lecter in 'The Silence of the Lambs'. His intelligence and his creepy, cannibalistic nature are what make him a great villain.