Archetypes

Take Notes on the following information: Carl Jung Collective unconscious Archetypes are what make up our collective unconscious - they are the natural way people’s brains are set up to experience basic human behavior and situations. The religious and mystique experiences are also governed by archetypes. The most important of all is the Self, which is the archetype of the center of the psychic person, his/her totality or wholeness. Archetypes manifest themselves through archetypal images (in all the cultures and religious doctrines), in dreams and visions. Therefore a great deal of Jungian interest in psyche focuses on dream and symbols interpretation in order to discover the compensation induced by archetypes as marks of psyche transformation. We may also describe it as a universal library of human patterns of behavior; . . . the very transcendental wisdom that guides mankind. Reference (slides 2 & 3: “Who is Carl Jung,” http://www.carl-jung.net/collective_unconscious.html

Archetypes – The Definition Definition: A pattern that is repeated through the ages in literature. An original model on which something is patterned.

Symbol: Concrete object representing an idea Motif: Visual detail developed throughout a work. It may reinforce character, enhance theme or foreshadow plot developments. A repeating pattern

The Odyssey follows this common Archetypal Theme. Archetypal Themes: a) The quest: the hero undertakes a long journey towards a goal. Must perform impossible tasks, confront errors, learn the rules, suffer doubts and overcome insurmountable obstacles.

Can you think of a story patterned after this archetypal theme Can you think of a story patterned after this archetypal theme? Write down at least one idea

The Odyssey also features this archetypal theme: b) The initiation (rite of passage, fall from innocence): The hero undergoes series of ordeals passing from innocence to social/spiritual maturity. Separation, transformation, return.

Can you think of a story patterned after this archetypal theme Can you think of a story patterned after this archetypal theme? Write down at least one idea.

Archetypal Characters: There are a variety of archetypal character types found in literature, film, stage, and screen. These archetypal characters can be found in real life as well.

The HERO The Hero: has unusual origins. strong, brave, smart, handsome. The hero is often a prince, a leader or a savior

The WISE COUNSELOR The Wise Counselor: This character is dedicated to good. They have the wisdom of experience. They serve to advise the hero

The SIDEKICK The companion or sidekick: befriends and helps the hero. They may be unusual in some way.

The VILLAIN The demonic adversary: a villain. represents evil. almost as strong as hero. may take on a monstrous form.

The SCAPEGOAT The sacrificial scapegoat: hero who chooses to die or allows himself to be sacrificed to restore his people or the land back to fruitfulness.

The DAMSEL IN DISTRESS The Damsel in Distress: This character is one who needs to be saved. They have been taken by force from their home or land and require the assistance of others to help them find safety and security.

The MOTHER The Great Mother: the protector of good, home, family. They represent warmth, security, fertility, and growth. She may be a sacred woman who intercedes for those who pray for her.

The EVIL MOTHER The terrible mother: She is a witch, a stepmother, a siren, a vixen, or a temptress. She’s bad news.

The SOULMATE The Soul Mate: goodness, innocence, purity. May be a princess who is beautiful, a prince who is handsome, and they are often sought after by the hero and are often remote or far away.

Identify a film that you have seen that fits most of the archetypal characters! Group: _____________________________________________ Title of Story: ________________________________________ Archetypal theme:_____________________________________ Archetypal Characters: a) The hero: b) The wise counselor: c) The companion: d) the damsel in distress e) The villain: f) The sacrificial scapegoat: g) The great mother: h) The terrible mother: i) The female soul mate: