The Dark Forest

Luo Ji is the protagonist of The Dark Forest and undergoes an immense transformation between the opening and closing scenes of the novel. He is an astronomer who in a whirlwind of action finds himself as one of humanity’s last hopes: a Wallfacer. Luo Ji obtains immense power in this position and despite not wanting or understanding his role, he cannot escape it. He decides to be a Wallfacer, but in his own way:

[H]e turned his attention to the power in his hands. The least of all the Wallfacers, Say had said, but he would certainly be able to make use of a terrifying amount of resources. Most importantly, he didn’t have to justify his use of them to anyone (119-20).

Luo Ji begins as selfish and self-centered. He would rather live out his life in comfort than participate in the Wallfacer program and wastes resources and time with self-serving requests. It is only after his wife and child are hibernated to kickstart his plans that Luo Ji truly accepts his role as a Wallfacer.

Unlike many of the other characters who have a purpose and drive that remains constant, Luo Ji is a dynamic character, who undergoes an immense change as he first accepts and then pursues his Wallfacer responsibilities.