1. Archetypes

2. What is an archetype?
Archetypes are the original pattern/model from which all stories are copied or based.
Archetypes include general situations, symbols, and character traits.

3. Character Archetypes
The [Epic] Hero – conquers obstacles and saves the day. (protagonist)
Usually embarks on a physical or spiritual quest
Typically stronger, smarter, and braver than the average human
Puts others ahead of himself
Examples include: Robin Hood, Luke Skywalker, Spiderman
Villan – working against the hero (antagonist)
Employs brute strength or cunning to undermine the work of the hero
Sometimes not recognized until well into the story
Ultimately defeated by the hero

4. Character Archetypes Mother Figure – cares for and guides the hero
Not always an actual mother
Fairy godmothers in fairytales fall under this
Sometimes a spiritual leader
Father Figure – leader and protector of a group
Sometimes intermingled with the role of the Mother Figure
Underdog – character who is always at a disadvantage
Pushes through hardship and wins respect

5. Character Archetypes
Mentors – serve as teachers or role models to teach necessary skills to survive journey and quest
Hunting Group of Companions – loyal companions willing to face any perils to be together
The Temptress – Characterized by sensuous beauty, may bring hero’s downfall
The Devil Figure – Character represents evil incarnate; opposes the hero and their quest
Friendly beast – these animals assist the hero and reflect that nature is on his/her side

6. Character Archetypes
The Damsel in Distress – vulnerable woman who must be rescued by the hero
Star-Crossed Lovers- two characters engaged in love affair that will end in tragedy for one or both due to disapproval of society, family, friends, or the gods (Romeo and Juliet)
Creature of Nightmare – monster that is summoned from the deepest, darkest parts of the human pysche to threaten the lives of the hero/heroine.
Scapegoat – An animal or human whose death excuses some taint or sin that has been visited upon the community

7. Symbolic Archetypes
Light vs. Darkness – light = hope and renewal; darkness = unknown, ignorance, and despair
Heaven vs. Hell – skies and mountaintops house gods; bowels of the earth contain diabolical forces
Supernatural Intervention – gods intervene on the side of the hero

8. Situational Archetypes
The Journey – hero is required to leave home and undertake a mission without guaranteed success
Many obstacles and distractions, but failure is not an option
Group members learn more about themselves and their world during this journey
Lord of the Rings & Frodo is an example
The Fall – characters losing some power or privilege.
Characters who make a mistake and derail hopes and dreams
Teaches the character an important lesson about life.
Ex: Biblical Story of Adam and Eve
Father-Son Conflict – tension from separation during childhood where both meet as men and a mentor has higher place in son’s affections than the father.

9. Situational Archetypes
The Quest – the search for someone or some talisman which, when found and returned, will restore fertility to a wasted land
The Task – refers to a possibly superhuman feat that must be accomplished to fulfill the ultimate goal
The Initiation – a moment, usually psychological, in which an individual comes into maturity. A hero will usually deny and question the calling and ultimately will accept their responsibility.
Death & Rebirth – someone or something, concrete and/or metaphysical dies yet is accompanied by some sign of birth or rebirth
Battle between Good and Evil – usually good wins