The Worst of the Worst
Some characters are simply poorly written. Others are deliberately written as kredens. And sometimes, you stumble upon a character so deplorable that they make you roll your eyes every time they appear. Let’s explore some of the most cringe-worthy male protagonists.
1. Humbert Humbert
Well, there’s really no topping this guy. He’s a pathetic creep we won’t even waste time describing fully. However, just know that he tries his very hardest to also play the victim—despite it all.
2. Patrick Bateman
Okay, well, when you grind people into sausage or invite them to your home for an “innocent drink,” you know you’re a bad dude. Not only that, but he’s also representative of a pretty insufferable culture.
3. Dorian Gray
Doran Gray started completely normally until he was eventually corrupted by his hedonistic company and pursuit of endless beauty. Sure enough, we were left with someone so obsessed with his own beauty that his inner cruelty never mattered.
Charles Ricketts (1866-1931) on Wikimedia
4. Linton Heathcliff
Say what you want about the book, but Heathcliff isn’t a good dude. He did basically admit that he’s always in bad spirits, and yes, we know he had a tough childhood, but that really doesn’t excuse his constant manipulation.
5. Holden Caufield
We’re just going to say it: Holden is the worst. He’s not inherently evil, but he is an annoying, angsty teenager who prides himself on being judgmental and entitled. And, like all teens, he can’t take responsibility either.
