Discussion: Who's the most unforgettable villain in literature?

Chime in!

Anton Chigurh (No Country for Old Men), as portrayed by Javier Bardem in the 2007 film

A villain — a character who impedes the hero’s progress — can make or break an entire book. A great villain isn’t just evil, they’re also compelling as characters. You want to get to know their backstory.

The best villains have clear motivations, whether it’s power, revenge, or a twisted sense of justice, and they often see themselves as the hero. A potent mix of charisma, menace, and sometimes even a sliver of humanity can make villains among the most unforgettable characters in literature. Here are a few that have stood out to me in my reading life:

• Baron Harkonnen (Dune)

• Dr. Frankenstein (Frankenstein)

• Anton Chigurh (No Country for Old Men)

• Annie Wilkes (Misery)

Your turn! Who are the most memorable villains in literature?

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