Archetypes

Ally

loyal companions

Creature(s) of Nightmare

monsters that are the antagonists of the story

The Beast

like nature of humans

Evil Figure with a Good Heart

redeemable evil figure saved by the hero

Friendly Beasts

creatures that aid or serve the hero

Loyal Retainers

servants to the hero that are heroic themselves

Star-Crossed Lovers

two lovers forbidden to be together because of their families or society; often end tragically

The Devil Figure

the incarnation of evil; offers goods, fame, or knowledge to hero in exchange for their soul

The Herald

signals change is coming to the heros world; invites hero to answer the call

The Hero

unusual birth; missing parents; has foster parents/guardians; royal or special heritage; given a quest

The Mentor

teacher/counselor to the hero; could be a parental figure

The Outcast

questionable past; banished from social group; sometimes falsely accused of a crime

The Platonic Ideal

provides inspiration (but not attraction) to the hero; ideal person

The Shadow

antagonist of the story; dark reflection of the hero that represents the dark path they could take

The Shapeshifter

unknown alliances; creates suspense; can be a love interest

The Temptress

sensuous beauty; tries to bring the heros downfall with physical attraction

The Trickster

tests the hero; can provide comic relief; cuts the heros ego down to size

Threshold Guardian(s)

test the hero to determine if he/she is worthy to pass