Elena Gilbert is a central character in the popular supernatural drama series The Vampire Diaries. She is portrayed as a compassionate and strong-willed young woman who navigates the complexities of love, loss, and friendship while dealing with the challenges of being surrounded by vampires and other supernatural beings. Throughout the series, Elena's character evolves significantly as she faces numerous trials, including the loss of loved ones and her own transformation. Her relationships with characters like Stefan Salvatore and Damon Salvatore are pivotal to the storyline, showcasing her emotional depth and resilience in the face of adversity.