Is the word protagonist a good or bad word?

The word "protagonist" itself is neither good nor bad. It's simply a neutral term that refers to the main character in a story.

However, the connotations of the word can be influenced by the specific context:

* Positive: In some cases, "protagonist" can carry a positive connotation, suggesting a heroic or admirable character. This is especially true in traditional narratives where the protagonist is often the "good guy" or the champion of justice.

* Neutral: More often, "protagonist" is used in a neutral way, simply to identify the central character without implying anything about their moral compass or actions.

* Negative: In some situations, the protagonist might be a villain or an antihero, in which case "protagonist" might carry a negative connotation.

Ultimately, the "goodness" or "badness" of the word "protagonist" depends on the context and the specific character it refers to.