Robert Langdon is a professor of religious symbology at the University of Harvard and the protagonist of the five-novel Robert Langdon series by Dan Brown. Langdon is largely a static character, whose core belief systems mostly do not change over the course of Origin. In a very limited sense, his views and opinions change over time in two key ways: 1) from a lover of purely traditional, old-world art to one capable of appreciating modern art, and 2) from a man impressed by Winston, to horrified by the creation and what it means for humanity’s future with AI.

Langdon fits into the character archetype of the everyman. He is casual, unassuming, grounded, and relatable. His special skills stem from hard work and curiosity rather than innate characteristics inherited at birth. While brave, he is realistic and without combat talents. His character arc in Origin begins with his invitation to Kirsch’s presentation, follows his witnessing of Kirsch’s murder and alliance with Vidal and Winston, and tracks him as he uncovers the mystery behind the Kirsch’s secrets and the worldly powers at play.