1. Archetypes

2. Introduction
Researchers have collected and compared myths, legends, and stories from cultures all around the world.
For centuries, unrelated groups have passed down through generations stories that were similar to the stories of other cultures.
The basic elements of these stories are called ARCHETYPES.

3. What is an archetype?
A character, action, or situation that is a prototype (or pattern) of human life generally
A situation that occurs over and over again in literature
Quest
Initiation/coming of age
Attempt to overcome evil

4. Archetypal Characters
Description
Examples
The Hero
Larger-than-life character
Often goes on some kind of journey or quest
Demonstrates qualities and abilities valued by his/her culture
King Arthur
Frodo (The Lord of the Rings)
Harry Potter
Wonder Woman (DC Comics)
Katniss Everdeen (Hunger Games)
Native American Archetypes
Trickster: a god, goddess, spirit, human, or animal who plays pranks or disobeys normal rules and behaviors.
Earth Mother: the bountiful spirit of the earth
Faithful Companion: supports the hero along the way
“First Couple” (Atse Hastin/Estsan)
“Spirit creators” (Mirage people)
“The elements” (wind)
“Sacred food” (corn)
“Animal charms” (feathers, skins)
“Spirit creators” (Young wife)
“Friendly Beasts” (Animal helpers)
“Watery world”/ “Submerged earth”
“Important Tree”
“Important Dream”
“Overly Curious Woman” (Wife)

5. Archetypal Characters
Description
Example
The Father Figure
Protector and leader
Dumbledore (Harry Potter)
Obi Wan Kenobi (Star Wars)
The Mother Figure
Protective nurturer and gentle provider
Mrs. Weasely (Harry Potter)
Fairy Godmother (Cinderella)

6. Archetypal Characters
Description
Example
The Temptress
Woman who uses her power (intellect, magic, beauty) to make men weak or distract them from quest
The White Witch (Narnia series)
Talia al Ghul (Batman)
Monster/ Villain
Evil antagonist
May represent particular sin or vice
The Joker (Batman)
Darth Vader (Star Wars)

7. Archetypal Characters
Description
Example
The Innocent/ Wise Fool
Lacks experience
Represents virtue/purity
Dorothy (The Wizard of Oz)
Luna Lovegood (Harry Potter)
The Damsel in Distress
Woman who needs to be rescued
Rapunzel
Sleeping Beauty
Faithful Companions
Characters who assist or guide the protagonist
Caitlin, Cisco (The Flash)
Donkey (Shrek)
Sam (Lord of the Rings)

8. Archetypal Characters
Description
Example
The Trickster
Tricks others to get what he/she wants
Can be virtuous and/or evil
Bart Simpson (The Simpsons)
Loki (Thor)
The Underdog
Odds stacked against him/her
Usually wins something of value in the end
David (versus Goliath, The Bible)
Neville Longbottom (Harry Potter)

9. Archetypal Settings Crossroads Place of suffering and decision
Description
Crossroads
Place of suffering and decision
Underworld
Place where the hero encounters fear or death
Maze or Labyrinth
Represents a puzzling dilemma or great uncertainty
Castle
Strong place of safety; holds treasure or princess; may be bewitched or enchanted

10. Archetypal Journeys Quest to Know Who You Are Quest to Find Knowledge
Patterns
Quest to Know Who You Are
Quest to Find Knowledge
Quest to Find the Promised Land or to Build a Beautiful City
The Warrior’s Quest to Save the People and Rid the Land of Danger
Quest for Revenge
Quest for Fame and Fortune
Fool’s Quest (a silly person saves the land because of his innocence or foolishness)
Search for Love