Characters in literature are the individuals who drive the story forward. They can be protagonists, who are the main characters facing challenges, or antagonists, who oppose them. Characters can also be secondary or minor, adding depth and context to the narrative. Each character typically has distinct traits, motivations, and development throughout the story. Writers use various techniques to create memorable characters, such as dialogue, actions, and inner thoughts. Characters can be realistic, reflecting real-life experiences, or they can be fantastical, like those found in fantasy or science fiction genres. Understanding characters helps readers connect with the story and its themes.