Macbeth

Macbeth is the central figure of the novel and, at alternate times, can be considered either the novel's protagonist, or antagonist. Macbeth grew up an orphan, but was repeatedly sexually abused by the director of the orphanage, Lorreal. With the help of another orphan -- his future police colleague, Duff -- Macbeth murders Lorreal and then escapes to the streets. He is eventually taken in by the SWAT team member Banquo, and cared for by Banquo and his since-deceased wife, Vera, who provide structure for his life until he enters the police academy and begins his career in the police force.

For several years, Macbeth's life and career are on an extreme upward trajectory: he becomes the leader of the SWAT team (thus becoming Banquo's boss), is easily able to stay sober after using drugs in his teen years, and maintains his approachable everyman status while also being...