In the realm of literature, a protagonist often serves as the central figure in a narrative, around whom the plot revolves and with whom the audience identifies. In contrast, the antagonist is the character that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict within the story. Understanding these roles is crucial for analyzing literary works and their underlying themes.
Consider the following excerpt from a discussion of classic literature:
'In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', the complexities of the titular character are underscored by his indecisiveness, contrasting sharply with the unyielding nature of King Claudius, who embodies cunning and manipulation.' The passage emphasizes the relational dynamics between the characters, highlighting their respective traits.
Within this context, what does the term 'unyielding' most closely mean?