Why is the Devil sometimes thought to be the hero in The Master and Margarita?.
In order to compose an answer to this, it is important to try to fully understand what a hero is, both in definition, and the modern use of the word. Indeed, even personal opinions can warp its meaning and cloud the subject in question (something which I shall have to try to avoid doing in this exploration). However, to avoid argument I shall be using the definition of hero as found in the dictionary .
It should be taken into consideration as to whether or not there are any other characters in the text who could be eligible for the title of hero, for the Devil, whilst being the principle character throughout (featured or alluded to in almost every chapter) could face competition from the likes of the master (a man who has a huge bearing on the novel itself, and gives his title to the title of the novel).
The definition of hero is quite wide, leaving room for several types of hero in the text. To discover the true hero or heroes (or heroine), it is necessary to look at their actions to determine whether or not they are worthy to be dubbed "hero". Here is it important to start asking oneself, "is it possible for good to come of evil (and vice versa)?".
From common perception alone, the Devil does not appear to be your average hero. His first notable appearance in literature occurred in the Bible, when he was called Lucifer, God's most senior angel. He fell from grace after he tried to take control of Heaven away from God. Considered to be the fountain of evil, or "the supreme spirit of evil" , and responsible for the sins of man, as he would try to tempt them away from God, to sin. Whilst much can be blamed on the Devil, despite some people who do not believe he exists , he does not force anyone to sin. He plays on God's creations by giving them the opportunity to sin, presenting them with choices and leaving them to decide for themselves.