Who is the Protagonist of Megillat Esther?

Who is the Protagonist of Megillat Esther?

There are two main characters in Megillat Esther. The actions of both Mordechai and Esther contributed to the redemption of the Jewish people. Why does Esther receive “top billing” in the naming of the megillah, rather than Mordechai?

By dividing the megillah into two parts, we can get a better sense of who is truly the protagonist of our story. In the first half – before Mordechai convinces Esther to go before the king and plead on behalf or her people (Chapter 4) – Mordechai appears to be the main character. Mordechai is the one who is active – refusing to bow before Haman – while Esther appears largely subservient to him, following his commands and direction: “Esther did what Mordecai told her, as she had done when under his care” (2:20). Until this point, the entire plot revolves around Mordechai and his actions. Once Esther agrees to risk her life on behalf of the Jewish people by appearing before the king, she becomes the leading character, and Mordechai becomes subservient to her: “So Mordecai went on his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him” (4:17). The focus of the megillah now turns to Esther’s plans – the parties that she prepares for the king and for Haman – and the megillah is named for her.

The description of how the holiday of Purim was established also credits Esther’s petition rather than that of Mordechai: “And the decree of Esther confirmed these matters of Purim; and it was written in the book” (9:32). By naming the megillah in her honor, Esther’s willingness to sacrifice herself on behalf of the Jewish people is emphasized. It is Esther’s selflessness that brings out the hidden Hand of God and the ultimate redemption. In recognition of Esther’s role, the Jews of Shushan and of all the lands acquiesce to her request to formalize the celebration of their redemption for all generations.