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How Evil Is Your Villain? Quiz

You're writing the villain for your new book, and you want to know—how evil are they really? Are they a classic baddie who loves to be evil, or are they an Anti-Villain—a character with noble traits but uses questionable methods to reach that goal.
How "light" or "dark" are they, and where do they sit on that scale? Answer the questions below to find out!

Consider your villain's GOAL. Is it Positive or Negative?

It's Positive if:
They want to achieve something for the greater good, or at least for the good of someone else.
It's Negative if:
They have a selfish goal that harms others, such as gaining ultimate power.
Q1
A
B

Consider your villain's MEANS to their goal. Is it Positive or Negative?

It's Positive if:
They have principles about what they will or will not do to achieve their goals. For example, they may refuse to harm innocents.
It's Negative if:
They do not care who gets hurt or what damage is done in pursuit of their goals.
Q2
A
B

Consider your villain's MOTIVATION. Is it Positive or Negative?

It's Positive if:
We understand why they are behaving this way, and perhaps even agree that their motivation is valid.
It's Negative if:
We do not understand their motivation, or we find it unsound.
Q3
A
B

Can we find EMPATHY for your villain?

Yes, if:
We have seen them suffering and experiencing trauma, and felt sympathy or empathy for them.
No, if:
We have seen nothing to make us empathise with them.
Q4
A
B

Is your villain LIKEABLE?

Yes, if:
There are aspects of them for which they are likeable—for example, they may be funny or kind to animals.
No, if:
They have no likeable qualities.
Q5
A
B