character archetypes

the hero

a protagonist whose life is a series of

well-marked adventures. The circumstances of his

birth are unusual, and he is raised by a guardian. He

will have to leave his kingdom, only to return to it

upon reaching manhood. Characterized by courage,

strength, and honor, the hero will endure hardship,

even risk his life for the good of all. Leaves the

familiar to enter an unfamiliar and challenging world.

young man from the provinces

the Hero returns to his home and heritage where he is

a stranger who can see new problems and new

solutions

the initiates

young heroes or heroines who must

go through some training and ceremony before

undertaking their quest

mentor

an older, wiser teacher to the initiates.

He often serves as a father or mother figure. He gives

the hero gifts (weapons, food, magic, information),

serves as a role model or as hero’s conscience.

mentor pupil relationship

the Mentor teaches the Hero/pupil

the necessary skills for surviving the quest

the threshold guardian

Tests the hero’s courage and worthiness to begin the

journey

father son conflict

In this relationship, the tension is built due to

separation from childhood or some other source when

foe two meet as men

hunting group of companions

These are loyal companions willing to face hardship and ordeal in order to stay together

loyal retainers

The Retainer's duty is to reflect the nobility and power

of the hero

friendly beast

an animal companion showing that nature is on the

side of the hero

the shadow

A worthy opponent with whom the hero must struggle

in a fight to the end. Must be destroyed or neutralized.

Psychologically can represent the darker side of the

hero’s own psyche

the devil figure

character who is evil incarnate

the evil figure with ultimately good heart

a devil figure with foe potential to be good. This

person is usually saved by the love of the hero