Engish STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

In a narrative, who often drives the main conflict?

1. Protagonist

2. Narrator

3. Setting

4. Antagonist

The correct answer is: Protagonist

The protagonist often drives the main conflict in a narrative because they are typically the central character around whom the story revolves. This character usually faces obstacles or challenges that must be overcome, which creates tension and conflict within the plot. The protagonist’s goals, desires, and motivations are key elements that propel the story forward and engage the reader. While it is possible for the antagonist to create conflict, the protagonist's actions and decisions are what primarily shape the narrative's trajectory. The narrator serves to tell the story rather than directly drive the conflict, and the setting provides the backdrop for the events but does not influence the conflict in the same active way that the protagonist does. Therefore, the role of the protagonist is crucial in initiating and sustaining the main conflict throughout the narrative.