Literary characters are the individuals that populate stories in books, plays, and other forms of literature. They can be human, animal, or even inanimate objects, and they often drive the plot forward through their actions, thoughts, and relationships. Characters can be categorized as protagonists, who are the main focus of the story, and antagonists, who oppose the protagonist. These characters are typically developed through their traits, motivations, and conflicts, making them relatable or intriguing to readers. Authors use various techniques, such as dialogue and description, to bring characters to life. Well-known literary characters include Sherlock Holmes, Elizabeth Bennet, and Huckleberry Finn.