Subverting the Norms: Writing Villains as Heroes

In the world of storytelling, the term “villain” or “bad guys” has long been associated with characters who embody darkness, evil, or selfish desires. These are the figures who challenge the protagonist, create conflict, and often drive the narrative forward through their malicious actions. But what happens when we shift the narrative lens and view these villains through a different lens? What if the villain’s journey, rather than being one of defeat, is seen as one of heroism? What if, instead of the traditional antagonist, we explore the complex depths of what it means to be misunderstood, flawed, or caught in circumstances that push them towards villainy? In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating concept of writing villains as heroes, a trend that is gaining traction in global and New Zealand storytelling, and how the best villains often possess complex backstories and motivations that elicit empathy from the reader.

The Traditional Villain Archetype

To understand the significance of writing villains as heroes, it’s essential to first look at the traditional role of the villain in storytelling. In classic narratives, villains are often defined by their opposition to the protagonist. They serve as foils to the hero, representing the forces of evil or chaos that the hero must overcome to restore balance or order. This binary opposition—good versus evil, hero versus villain—has been deeply embedded in myths, fairy tales, and folklore across cultures, including in New Zealand.

A ‘villain stands’ for the core beliefs and moral framework that define their actions and choices within a narrative, making them relatable and complex characters. Traditional villain characteristics include traits such as malice, cunning, and a desire for power, which are used to create compelling antagonists that enhance the story’s conflict and thematic depth.

In Māori mythology, for instance, stories such as the creation myth of Māui involve complex characters that are sometimes antagonistic but often embody dualities—wisdom and mischief, good intentions and chaotic outcomes. Similarly, many early Pākehā tales imported from European traditions cast villains in clear opposition to noble heroes. However, as storytelling evolved, the need for more nuanced, multifaceted characters grew. Villains began to transform from flat antagonists into fully developed characters, with their own desires, fears, and motivations. This shift opened the door to writing villains as heroes—an idea that questions the very nature of good and evil, heroism and villainy.

Crafting a Compelling Villain

Crafting a compelling villain is a crucial element in creating an engaging story. A good villain should be a complex and multi-dimensional character with their own motivations, backstory, and own moral code. To craft a compelling villain, consider the following key elements:

First and foremost, give your villain a clear motivation. A villain’s motivation should be understandable, even if it’s misguided. This motivation should drive their actions and decisions throughout the story, making them a more believable and relatable character. For instance, a villain who seeks power might do so because they were powerless in their past, adding depth to their quest for control.

Next, make your villain proactive. A compelling villain doesn’t just react to the hero’s actions; they set the story in motion and create obstacles for the hero to overcome. By being proactive, the villain maintains control and keeps the narrative dynamic and engaging. A rich backstory is another crucial element. A well-written villain’s backstory should be tragic and deeply rooted in their personality and motivations. This backstory not only explains their current actions but also evokes empathy from the audience. For example, a villain who experienced betrayal might be driven by a desire for revenge, making their actions more understandable.

Lastly, make your villain relatable. Even the most antagonistic force should have redeeming qualities that make them more complex and nuanced. These qualities humanize the villain, allowing the audience to see them as more than just a bad guy. By giving your villain traits that readers can relate to, you create a character that resonates on a deeper level.

The Anatomy of a Memorable Villain

A memorable villain is one that stands out in the reader’s mind long after the story is finished. To create a memorable villain, consider the following key elements:

Start by giving your villain a unique personality. A villain’s personality should be distinct and memorable, with a unique voice, mannerisms, and way of speaking. This uniqueness makes the villain stand out and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

Make your villain intelligent and resourceful. A memorable villain should be able to outsmart the hero and stay one step ahead. Their intelligence and resourcefulness make them formidable opponents, adding tension and excitement to the story.

A compelling backstory is also essential. A villain’s backstory should be both tragic and driving, influencing their actions and decisions throughout the story. This backstory adds depth to the character, making them more than just a one-dimensional antagonist.

Finally, make your villain a foil to the hero. A well-written villain should have motivations, values, and goals that are opposite to those of the hero. This contrast not only highlights the hero’s qualities but also adds complexity to the narrative, making the conflict between them more engaging.

From Villains to Antiheroes: The Shift in Narrative

The concept of the antihero is a direct precursor to writing villains as heroes. An antihero is a central character who lacks traditional heroic qualities such as morality, bravery, or nobility. Instead, antiheroes tend to have flaws, operate by their own rules, and often lack the clear sense of right and wrong associated with typical heroes. These characters can be cynical, selfish, and morally ambiguous, yet they remain sympathetic and relatable. Antiheroes like Walter White from Breaking Bad or the titular character of The Punisher have captivated audiences by showing that even those who walk on the dark side of the moral spectrum can display hero-like qualities.

What makes this shift in storytelling so compelling is that it reflects a more complex, more realistic view of humanity. Rather than portraying good and evil as binary choices, modern narratives embrace the complexity of human motivations. In a world where moral ambiguity and ethical grey areas dominate many of our societal and personal struggles, writers are increasingly drawn to exploring characters who are flawed, conflicted, and capable of both good and bad actions. This often involves showing how a normal person can be pushed to extreme behaviours or villainy due to tragic circumstances, emphasising the transformation into an antihero through personal tragedy.

The Villain’s Journey: Exploring Motivation and Backstory

One of the most effective ways to write a villain as a hero is to give them a strong backstory that explains their actions, motivations, and transformation. Instead of being purely evil for the sake of conflict, the villain-turned-hero becomes someone whose actions are driven by circumstance, trauma, or personal struggle. The key here is empathy: when audiences understand why a character behaves the way they do, they are more likely to relate to them, even if they don’t agree with their actions. Villains often see themselves as the heroes of their own story, which adds depth and complexity to their character.

Consider the example of Maleficent, a reimagined villain from Disney’s Maleficent (2014). In the original Sleeping Beauty story, Maleficent is a wicked fairy who curses Princess Aurora out of spite. However, in the 2014 film, we learn that Maleficent was once a kind-hearted and noble protector of her homeland, only to be betrayed and hurt by someone she loved. Her actions are not driven by malice, but by heartbreak and vengeance. Through her backstory, we come to understand her pain, and as a result, we begin to view her actions through a more sympathetic lens.

Elphaba, the wicked witch in Wicked, is initially seen as a villain due to her rebellion against an unjust society, but as her backstory unfolds, we see her as a misunderstood character shaped by discrimination, her powerful sense of justice, and her desire to protect those marginalized by the oppressive regime, transforming her into a symbol of empowerment and resistance.

Much like Maleficent, Elphaba’s journey reflects the transformation of a traditionally villainous character into a misunderstood antihero, as both characters are initially cast as antagonists due to their actions, which are deeply rooted in personal pain and betrayal. Elphaba, like Maleficent, becomes a symbol of defiance against a corrupt system, her descent into “villainy” driven by heartbreak, loss, and a desire to protect the innocent. Both stories highlight how the characters’ dark actions stem from personal trauma, ultimately revealing that they are not evil at heart but rather complex figures shaped by their circumstances, making them more relatable and even heroic in their own right.

The Best Villains are Heroes in Their Own Story

The best villains are those who see themselves as the heroes of their own story. These characters are driven by clear motivations and backstories that justify their actions in their own minds. A good villain is not just a one-dimensional bad guy; they are complex and nuanced, possessing both admirable and despicable traits that make them relatable and human.

A well-written villain believes they are doing the right thing, even if their methods are questionable. Their actions are driven by a desire to achieve their goals, and they are willing to go to great lengths to succeed. This proactive nature keeps the plot dynamic and engaging, as the villain is not merely reacting to the hero but actively shaping the narrative.

A villain’s backstory is crucial in making them believable and relatable. It should be tragic and deeply rooted in their personality and motivations. For instance, a villain might be driven by a desire to save the world or avenge a past wrong, adding layers to their character and making their actions more understandable. This backstory should be consistent with their actions throughout the story, providing a coherent and compelling narrative arc.

Moreover, a villain’s moral code is a defining aspect of their character. It should be clear and understandable, even if it differs from the hero’s. This moral code, whether driven by a desire for power, revenge, or justice, should guide their actions and decisions, making them more than just a bad guy. By giving your villain a distinct moral code, you create a character that resonates with readers on a deeper level, challenging them to see the world from a different perspective.

The Power of a Well-Rounded Villain in New Zealand’s Cultural Context

A well-rounded villain can be a powerful storytelling tool. A good villain adds depth and complexity to a narrative, driving the plot forward with their unique motivations and backstory. By drawing on New Zealand’s cultural heritage, writers can create villains that are not only compelling but also deeply rooted in the country’s history and values.

A well-written villain in this context can subvert expectations and challenge cultural norms. They can embody both admirable and despicable traits, creating a nuanced and complex character that defies simple categorization. For instance, a villain’s moral code might be influenced by Māori values of mana (prestige) and utu (reciprocity), or by the historical tensions between Māori and Pākehā communities. This cultural grounding makes the villain more relatable and human, adding layers to their character.

In New Zealand’s storytelling, a villain can also symbolise the antagonistic forces that the hero must overcome. This could be a representation of historical challenges, such as colonialism or land disputes, or more personal struggles rooted in cultural identity. The villain’s physical form and characteristics can draw from New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna, or from mythological figures in Māori lore, creating a memorable and distinctive character.

By incorporating these elements, writers can create villains that are not only engaging but also reflective of New Zealand’s diverse cultural landscape. This approach not only enriches the narrative but also invites readers to explore the complexities of morality, identity, and history in a uniquely New Zealand context.

The Importance of a Villain’s Arc

A villain’s arc is a crucial element in crafting a compelling and engaging story. A good villain’s journey should be clear and understandable, driven by their motivations and backstory. This arc not only adds depth to the character but also creates a sense of tension and conflict that propels the narrative forward.

A well-written villain’s arc is influenced by their desire to achieve their goals, which are often rooted in their tragic backstory. This journey should be nuanced and complex, showcasing both their admirable and despicable traits. For instance, a villain might start as a sympathetic character whose actions become increasingly questionable as they pursue their goals. This transformation adds layers to their character, making them more than just a one-dimensional antagonist.

The villain’s arc should also serve as a foil to the hero’s journey. While the hero strives for justice and righteousness, the villain’s path might be driven by revenge or a desire for power. This contrast not only highlights the hero’s qualities but also adds complexity to the narrative, making the conflict between them more engaging.

In conclusion, a villain’s arc is essential for creating a compelling story. It should be a clear and understandable journey, driven by the villain’s motivations and backstory. By crafting a nuanced and complex arc, writers can create villains that are not only formidable opponents but also deeply human characters, adding depth and richness to the narrative.

Challenging the Idea of Good and Evil: What Makes a Compelling Villain?

Writing villains as heroes also forces us to question the very notion of good versus evil. Often, these labels are oversimplifications that do not capture the complexity of human experience. After all, who decides what is “good” and what is “evil”? In New Zealand, with its diverse cultural makeup and shared histories of colonisation, land disputes, and social inequality, the lines between good and evil can be blurred, and the same actions might be seen differently depending on one’s perspective.

Take, for instance, the case of Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Gollum is a prime example of a villain whose journey evokes sympathy. While he is often seen as the antagonist—driven by his obsession with the One Ring—his character is not purely evil. His transformation from the kind-hearted Sméagol to the corrupted Gollum is a tragic tale of addiction, isolation, and moral decay. Gollum’s struggle with his inner demons is what makes him compelling, and his eventual redemption, though fleeting, shows that there is still humanity beneath the layers of villainy.

Similarly, many characters in Māori stories are neither entirely good nor entirely bad. For example, Māui, while a cultural hero and demi-god, often engages in trickery and mischief. His actions, though sometimes selfish or mischievous, ultimately lead to positive outcomes for the world. These complexities challenge the idea of clear-cut heroes and villains, inviting a more nuanced exploration of morality and human nature.

In the context of modern storytelling, writing villains as heroes can be seen as a way to embrace this complexity, inviting audiences to look beyond superficial labels and explore the multi-dimensional nature of characters and their motivations. The direct conflict between the villain and the protagonist is what often drives the narrative forward, making the villain an integral part of the story’s development and tension.

Writing Prompts

Here are five writing prompts to inspire you to explore the concept of villains as heroes in your own narratives:

1. The Betrayed Leader

Write a story about a character who was once a beloved leader but is betrayed by those closest to them, causing them to turn against their own people. As the story unfolds, reveal the complex motivations behind their actions. Is their transformation into a “villain” a result of personal loss, political maneuvering, or a deeply ingrained desire for justice? Explore the emotional and psychological journey of this character as they struggle with their own sense of morality.

2. The Underdog Rebel

Imagine a villain from a traditional fantasy or mythological tale, such as a warlord or a trickster, who is actually fighting to protect a marginalized community from oppression. Write the backstory of this character, showing how they became the “villain” in the eyes of the powerful, but how their actions are motivated by a deep sense of justice for the weak and the oppressed. Explore the idea that their villainy is actually an act of heroism in a world that refuses to see them as such.

3. The Reluctant Antagonist

Write about a character who is forced into the role of the antagonist due to circumstances beyond their control, such as societal pressure, a tragic event, or an unjust system. This character might be seen as a villain by others, but their internal conflict and desire for redemption make them sympathetic. Dive into their personal struggle as they wrestle with their actions, knowing they are creating harm but feeling they have no other choice.

4. The Resurrected Villain

Imagine a villain who has been defeated by the hero in a previous story, but is resurrected or returns from exile. Upon their return, they realize that their past actions were the result of trauma or manipulation. Write a story where this “villain” now seeks redemption and attempts to change the world they once sought to conquer. Explore the tension between their past and present selves, and how they must fight both external enemies and their own inner demons.

5. The Forgotten Hero

Create a narrative about a character who was once a hero, but whose deeds have been overshadowed by a more famous or traditional hero figure. Over time, they are labeled a “villain” by society, even though their original intentions were good. As the story unfolds, explore their personal history, the misunderstandings that led to their fall from grace, and their attempt to reclaim their true legacy. Would the world be willing to see them as a hero again, or have they become too far gone?

These prompts allow for exploration of complex character arcs, morality, and perspective shifts, which are key to turning traditional villains into heroes.

Avoiding Common Villain Tropes

When creating a villain, it’s easy to fall into common tropes and clichés. To avoid these tropes, consider the following:

• Avoid making your villain one-dimensional. A villain should be complex and multi-dimensional, with a rich backstory, motivation, and moral code. This complexity makes them more interesting and believable.
• Don’t make your villain too powerful. While a villain should be a formidable opponent, they shouldn’t be so powerful that they are undefeatable. A balance of power ensures that the hero’s journey remains challenging yet achievable.
• Avoid making your villain too evil. A villain should have redeeming qualities that make them more complex and nuanced. By giving your villain traits that evoke empathy, you create a character that is more than just a bad guy.
• Lastly, don’t make your villain a caricature. A villain should be a real person with a unique personality, voice, and mannerisms. This realism makes the villain more relatable and engaging, adding depth to the story.

By avoiding these common villain tropes, you can create a more complex and nuanced villain that will add depth and complexity to your story.

Villains as Heroes in Popular Culture

In recent years, pop culture has embraced the idea of writing villains as heroes, with many popular films, television shows, and books taking a more sympathetic approach to traditionally evil characters. For instance, Joker (2019), directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix, tells the origin story of the iconic Batman villain. While the film’s central character, Arthur Fleck, descends into madness and violence, the film explores the societal and personal factors that shape him. The movie doesn’t excuse his actions, but it paints a portrait of a man who has been failed by society and is driven to extreme measures in response.

Similarly, Cruella (2021) reimagines the infamous villain from 101 Dalmatians as a complex and misunderstood character with a tragic backstory. By showing Cruella’s rise to villainy through the lens of her childhood trauma and creative genius, the film challenges the audience to see her as more than just a caricature of evil. Instead, she is portrayed as someone who was shaped by her experiences, making her a far more relatable and compelling figure.

In New Zealand, this trend could translate into reimagining historical and mythological figures through a more empathetic lens. Characters who have traditionally been viewed as antagonists—whether in Māori mythology or colonial history—can be reinterpreted as individuals acting in response to deeply ingrained societal issues. By focusing on the story arc of these characters, writers can create a more nuanced and complex narrative, one that challenges preconceived notions and sparks thoughtful conversations about history, identity, and morality.

The Heroism of Villains in Storytelling

Writing villains as heroes invites us to embrace the complexity of human nature, question our assumptions about morality, and reflect on the ways in which our histories, cultures, and experiences shape us. In New Zealand, where diverse cultural narratives and histories intersect, this approach is particularly powerful. By reimagining traditional villains as multi-faceted heroes, we can deepen our understanding of the human condition and challenge the simplistic dichotomy of good versus evil.

Ultimately, writing villains as heroes is not about glorifying evil actions but rather about understanding the forces that shape those actions. It’s about exploring the grey areas of morality, offering empathy to those who have been marginalized, and questioning the systems that create conflict and division. As New Zealand continues to evolve as a society, embracing this more nuanced approach to storytelling can help us forge deeper connections, both within our own communities and with the wider world.

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