What is the definition of foil in literature?

Answer 1

In literature, a foil is a character that has traits which are opposite from one of the main characters, in order to highlight various features of that main character's personality. These features can be physical (such as Sancho Panza being overly fat, to emphasize how incredibly thin Don Quixote is) or emotional (Lucius Malfoy is especially cunning and sinister, making Professor Dumbledore appear even nobler by comparison).

Answer 2

Typically a foil is some character that 'improves' the personality of another character by providing contrast. For example in the novel 'Dracula' Lucy Westenra is a foil for Wilhelmina Harker. However, as literature and art in general is kept manipulative as possible, a foil can be anything that provides the same function.

Answer 3

In literature, a foil is a character that shows qualities that are in contrast with the qualities of another character with the objective to highlight the traits of the other character. The term foil, though generally being applied for a contrasting character, may also be used for any comparison that is drawn to portray a difference between two things.

Answer 4

It is the person whose purpose is to reflect the main character. It is also the contrasting character.

Answer 5

A character foil is a minor character who brings out the main character's weaknesses and main characteristics.

Answer 6

A foil is a character, opposite to another character that is used to emphasize characteristics of a character, by acting as a contrast.