How are villains typically defined in epic myths?

Villains in epic myths are primarily defined by their opposition to the hero. This fundamental conflict is what drives the narrative and emphasizes the hero’s journey. The villain often embodies traits and values that are contrary to those of the hero, serving as a catalyst for the hero's growth and development. This opposition creates tension within the story, offering challenges and obstacles that the hero must overcome. The interactions between the hero and the villain illustrate larger themes such as good versus evil, perseverance, and moral dilemmas, making this opposition a key aspect of epic storytelling.

Other definitions may highlight different aspects of characters but do not capture the essential relationship between the villain and the hero in the way the opposition does. For instance, a quest for glory or the need for redemption might be characteristics of a hero or a more nuanced character arc rather than defining features of a villain in epic myths. Similarly, charm can be an attribute of various characters, including heroes and villains, but it does not specifically define the antagonist role within the epic context.