Heroes may steal the spotlight, but their journeys are incomplete without the loyal companions who stand by them. They don’t just follow along—they enrich the story, add depth to the hero’s character, and remind us that no one succeeds alone.
From steadfast allies to clever problem-solvers, here are some of the most iconic sidekicks who’ve proven that greatness isn’t reserved for the main character.
What Makes a Great Sidekick?
Great sidekicks are more than companions; they’re essential to the hero’s journey and the story’s success. They often embody loyalty and their unique personalities complement the hero’s traits. This creates a dynamic that makes the story richer and more engaging.
Sidekicks serve a variety of roles. They solve problems, act as a moral compass, or provide emotional support in the hero’s darkest moments. Their unique personalities and abilities make them indispensable to the hero’s journey.
12 Greatest Sidekicks in Literary History
Here’s a list of sidekicks who’ve earned their place in the hall of fame.
1. Dr. John Watson (Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle)
Dr. Watson is the lens through which readers experience Holmes’ genius. As the narrator, Watson’s grounded and relatable personality contrasts Holmes’ eccentric brilliance. Without him, Holme’s adventures would have come across as too cold and clinical.
2. Samwise Gamgee (The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien)
Frodo may be the ring-bearer, but Sam is the heart of their journey. He carries Frodo—both literally and figuratively—when the journey becomes too much. His loyalty, courage, and belief in his friend are key to the emotional aspect of the story.
His secondary status is, of course, debatable. For one thing, Tolkien considered him the true hero of his story.
3. Sancho Panza (Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes)
Sancho Panza is a foil to Don Quixote’s lofty ideals. His earthy wisdom and practical nature contrast with Quixote’s romanticized view of the world, grounding the story with humor and realism.
Despite his initial skepticism, Sancho’s loyalty grows, and he begins to share in his master’s dreams. He represents the balance between fantasy and reality, allowing Don Quixote to reach his goals but in an achievable way.
4. Horatio (Hamlet by William Shakespeare)
Horatio is Hamlet’s most trusted confidant, offering unwavering support in a world filled with betrayal. Unlike the other characters in Hamlet, Horatio remains steady and rational, providing a clear voice amidst the chaos.
His loyalty ensures that Hamlet’s story is told after his death, making him instrumental in preserving the prince’s legacy.
5. Huck Finn (The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain)
Huck is Tom Sawyer’s adventurous and rebellious best friend. While Tom dreams up elaborate plans, Huck brings them to life with his resourcefulness and street smarts.
6. Piglet (Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne)
Piglet may be small and timid, but he always tries to be brave. As Pooh’s loyal friend, Piglet shows that true courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about taking action despite your fears.
7. Ron Weasley (Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling)
While Ron might not be the smartest or the bravest, his loyalty and humor make him an essential part of the group. Despite his insecurities and struggles, he’s able to keep up with his friends no matter the situation. It’s these moments of courage and selflessness that make him an excellent sidekick.
8. Charlotte (Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White)
Charlotte takes on a motherly role for Wilbur. With her efforts, she saves him from the slaughterhouse. She has a quiet strength that leaves a lasting impact on readers. Without her, Wilbur’s story—and his life—wouldn’t be the same.
9. Robin (Batman by Bob Kane and Bill Finger)
Of all superhero sidekicks, Robin might be the one who’s left the most marks in history. Over the years, his various incarnations have proven essential to Batman’s crusade. His youthful energy and optimism is the perfect balance to Batman’s serious and brooding demeanor.
10. Reepicheep (The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis)
This mouse may be small in stature but is large in courage. His loyalty, wit, and unwavering dedication to Aslan make him an unforgettable companion. He’s proof that size doesn’t determine heroism.
11. Piggy (Lord of the Flies by William Golding)
Piggy serves as Ralph’s intellectual and moral anchor in Lord of the Flies. He’s the rational one, keeping the boys’ madness at bay. He was essential to their survival, though he ended up suffering from the boys’ descent into chaos.
12. Grover Underwood (Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan)
Grover, Percy’s loyal satyr friend, acts as both protector and comic relief. Tasked with keeping Percy safe, Grover shows remarkable courage and selflessness, often putting himself at risk to ensure the group’s success. His love of nature and his dream to find Pan highlight his growth throughout the series, proving that sidekicks can have compelling arcs too.
Conclusion
Sidekicks may not always claim the spotlight, but their contributions are the backbone of many iconic stories. They remind us that courage, loyalty, and wisdom can come from the most unexpected places. They prove that every hero’s journey is richer for having a great companion by their side.
Who’s your favorite literary sidekick? Share your thoughts below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- 11 of the Best Comic Relief Characters in Fiction
- 13 Villains From Literature, Film, and Video Games Who Were Right All Along
- 45 Types of Stock Characters to Help Build Your Story
- 40 Most Hated Characters on Screen and Paper
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
