Character Archetypes
Origins and Definition of Archetypes
Throughout history, researchers have systematically collected and compared myths, legends, and religions from global cultures.
Findings revealed that for centuries, different groups of people who had absolutely no contact with one another passed down stories through generations that were remarkably similar to those of other cultures.
The shared basic elements that appear across many different stories and cultures are defined as Archetypes.
Character Archetypes refer to typical characters possessing a specific set of traits that repeat across the history of storytelling.
Nearly every character within a story can be identified with one or more specific archetypes.
Factors regarding the application of archetypes:
Archetypes are considered fluid.
Some characters may not fit neatly into any predefined archetype, while others may simultaneously represent multiple archetypes.
These are recognized patterns in storytelling, rather than absolute predictors of a character's behavior or personality.
The Hero Archetype and Heroic Sub-categories
#1 - The Hero: This is the protagonist of the story who rises to overcome a significant challenge and saves the day.
There are several specific sub-categories within the hero archetype:
Classical Hero or Romantic Hero: This character possesses unique attributes or qualities that distinguish them from others. While they are considered equal to others within their own world, they have something special that others do not.
Everyday Hero: An individual with no outstanding abilities or extraordinary attributes. This person is thrust into extraordinary circumstances where they are required to act in a heroic manner.
Superhero: A character who possesses powers that ordinary people do not, which are typically supernatural in nature. These heroes often begin as normal individuals but gain powers that render them extraordinary.
Tragic Hero: A character who possesses a fatal flaw or makes a poor judgment call that leads directly to their ultimate downfall. This demise evokes feelings of fear or pity within the audience.
Epic Hero: Most popular in Greek mythology, these characters possess otherworldly heroic qualities. They are typically of noble birth and are considered legendary due to their seemingly superhuman capabilities and heroic deeds.
Anti-Hero: This character possesses traits that are uncommon or undesirable for a traditional hero. They may be arrogant, immoral, rebellious, or dishonest, and are typically not admired by others. Their behavior can range from a good person with a significant vice to a criminal who possesses a good heart. Sometimes they act more like a villain than a hero.
Supporting Character Archetypes and Guides
#2 - The Father Figure/Mentor: A wise figure who serves as a guide for the Hero. They represent the person or ideal the Hero is attempting to become. These characters possess wisdom, experience, and leadership that the Hero currently lacks.
#3 - The Sidekick or Ally: Usually associated with the protagonist, the sidekick provides both friendship and assistance. They often challenge the protagonist's thinking and are characterized as loyal and encouraging. They frequently provide energy and humor to the narrative.
#4 - The Magician: A powerful figure who has harnessed the ways of the universe in order to achieve key goals. While they are wise and powerful, the magician is susceptible to negative traits such as arrogance and corruptibility.
#5 - The Outlaw: A rebel who refuses to abide by the demands and rules of society. The outlaw is an independent thinker who owes no favors to others, but they can also be selfish and potentially criminal.
#6 - The Explorer: This character is naturally driven to push beyond the boundaries of the status quo to investigate the unknown. They are curious, driven, and motivated by self-improvement. However, they can also be restless, unreliable, and never fully satisfied.
Antagonistic and Transitional Archetypes
#7 - The Shadow (aka the Villain): This character exists specifically to create threat and conflict, providing the Hero with a struggle to overcome. They sometimes mirror the Hero in certain ways and often serve as a symbol of evil to contrast the Hero's goodness.
#8 - The Shapeshifter: A character who changes from what the Hero initially perceived them to be. They mislead the Hero and act as a catalyst for change within the plot. This archetype relates to changes in character integrity rather than physical appearance. Audiences often enjoy shapeshifters because they are unpredictable and exciting.
#9 - The Guardian (aka Threshold Guardian): This character tests the Hero before they reach the ultimate battle or their greatest challenge. They typically block an entrance or a border of some kind, forcing the Hero to prove their worth.
#10 - The Trickster (aka Comic Relief): This character adds fun and humor to the story, providing the audience with a break during tense moments. They sometimes offer an outside perspective or ask important questions that other characters do not consider.
Academic Schedule and Project Guidelines
The study of character archetypes is a prerequisite for the Infographic Character Analysis Book Project.
On Wednesday, August , the agenda includes taking detailed notes on common archetypes and engaging in independent reading.
Independent requirements include reading for at least minutes and logging the progress accurately.
A summative assessment is scheduled for the day following the introduction of these notes, which will require the creation of a "masterpiece of archetypal knowledge and art."
Professional notebook organization suggests using the front of the notebook for low-stakes writing and the back for formal notes, though individual preferences are permitted.