AP English Lit - Archetypes

Archetype

A very typical example of a certain person or thing.

Hero in literature

The principal male character, usually known for feats of courage.

First stage of the Hero's Journey

Ordinary World - lets us know the hero and identify him before entering the special world.

Second stage of the Hero's Journey

Call to Adventure.

Third stage of the Hero's Journey

Refusal of the Call.

Fourth stage of the Hero's Journey

Meeting the Mentor - gain advice and magical help to face fears and journey.

Crossing the Threshold

The hero leaves the ordinary world and enters the special world (stage 5).

Tests, Allies, and Enemies

The hero faces challenges, meets friends and foes (stage 6).

Inmost Cave

The figurative place where the ultimate goal lies, high stakes (stage 7).

Ordeal stage

A life-or-death moment where the hero is on the brink of failure (stage 8).

Reward in the Hero's Journey

The hero overcomes fear and gains a reward (stage 9).

Road Back

The hero faces challenges returning to the ordinary world after the quest (stage 10).

Resurrection

The final conflict or meeting (stage 11).

Return with the Elixir

The hero completes the cycle and brings back the reward earned on the journey (stage 12).

Monster/Villain archetype

The main antagonist, physically strong but often less mentally capable than the hero.

Best Friend archetype

Loyal companion who helps the hero and often sacrifices themselves.

Damsel in Distress

Either a true victim who can't save herself, or weak-minded and vain, needing rescue.

Hag/Witch archetype

An older woman with great wisdom and magic, offering advice and info.

Shaman

The male version of the wise magical figure, usually solitary.

Evil Genius archetype

A smart, bullied kid who seeks revenge with destructive inventions.

Shadow archetype

A character who blocks or opposes the hero's path.

Sadist archetype

A violent, psychopathic character who enjoys causing pain and control, and cannot be saved.

Shapeshifter/Trickster

A character whose true nature is uncertain; revealing it can cause major story changes.

Stock Characters

One-dimensional stereotypes like mean girl, jock, nerd, or burnout teacher.