What is the Difference Between a Mean and Evil Character in Fiction?

In the world of fiction, characters are often depicted as either mean or evil. While these terms might seem interchangeable, they carry distinct meanings and implications. This article explores the nuances of these terms and delves into the question of whether an evil protagonist can ever be excused. Additionally, we will examine the role of a mean character in fiction and how an evil character can be made more relatable and justifiable.

Defining Mean vs. Evil

Mean Behavior vs. Evil Intentions

Mean is often used to describe actions or behavior that are hurtful, unkind, or selfish. A mean person typically acts with the intent to cause harm, but usually without the conscious awareness of the full consequences of their actions. For example, a person who dresses up a criminal and helps them escape might be mean but not necessarily evil, as they might just want revenge or to put someone else in the spotlight, rather than harboring an overall desire to inflict harm.

Evil, on the other hand, denotes a much more conscious and deliberate intention to do harm. An evil person is aware of their actions and the harm they cause. They might act with the sole purpose of inflicting pain or suffering on others. This conscious malice is a defining characteristic of an evil character. Evil is not a permanent identity, but rather a state of being that can be altered, just as a mean person can be transformed into someone more kind and compassionate.

Excusing an Evil Main Character in Fiction

Creating a Relatable Villain

The question of excusing an evil main character arises in the realm of fiction. This is not about actually condoning their actions, but rather about making them more relatable and understandable to the audience. There are several ways to make an evil character more human and, in a twisted way, relatable:

Compelling Circumstances: By revealing the difficult circumstances that led the character to their position, the audience can gain a deeper understanding of why they act as they do. Their actions can be seen as a reaction to their environment or a result of a traumatic experience, even if the end result is harmful. Justifiable Actions: Even if the character’s actions are evil, they can still believe they are justifiable within their own twisted logic. Making their reasoning clear to the audience can help create a sense of dilemma, prompting readers to empathize with the character on some level. Humanizing Elements: Showing moments of vulnerability or compassion in the character’s behavior can soften the audience’s view of them, making them more relatable and nuanced.

Avon Long in Die another Day is a good example: Despite his wicked intentions, his interactions with Bond and his human moments—such as showing concern for a kitten—can make him more relatable. Similarly, Grindelwald in the Harry Potter series: While his actions are evil, when compared to Voldemort, his acts seem more human and understandable, even if they are still reprehensible.

Importance of Context and Interpretation

Subjectivity and Context

Both "mean" and "evil" are subjective and context-dependent concepts. Their meanings can vary based on different cultural, societal, and personal perspectives. Just as "evil" in Christian theology is absolved through prayer and absolution, the interpretation of whether a character is mean or evil can also be influenced by the narrative and the context in which their actions are set.

A character’s actions are often influenced by their environment, background, and the choices they make. Understanding these factors can provide a more nuanced perspective on their behavior. Just as Christians might see evil as absolved through faith, audiences might find a character’s actions more understandable or forgivable when they are presented within a broader context.

Concluding Thoughts

In the realm of fiction, creating a compelling mean or evil character can significantly enhance the narrative. While mean characters are often more accidental in their harm, evil characters are purposeful in their cruelty. Both can be made more relatable through their circumstances and actions, thereby engaging the audience in a deeper, more nuanced exploration of the character’s motivations and choices.

By humanizing these characters and providing a context for their actions, fiction writers can invite readers to empathize with seemingly reprehensible characters, thus creating a more engaging and thought-provoking reading experience.