Scapegoat

Scapegoat is an antagonist or a villain who is punished much more than he/she would actually deserve. By definition, they are the opposites of Karmas Houdini.

Just being a "bad guy" and having bad intentions is never enough to suffer such a punishment, which must be given according to acts. Some antagonists and villains are submitted to a retribution that can be very harsh, even unfair, thus winning over the audience's sympathy.

Do not add villains who are pure evil, as they display no sympathetic traits or redeeming qualities, and whatever comeuppance they receive must not be played for sympathy.